THE THIRD APPLE: Personal Computers and the Cultural Revolution

A readable, surprisingly lively insider's look at Apple Inc., with an interesting exploration of the computer's influence on our lives. What Lewis Thomas did for the lowly cell, Apple executive Gassee is trying to do with the binary bit. There is a taste of everything here--philosophy, math, biology, politics, personalities, management, cultural forces and artificial intelligence--nicely buoyed by the author's enthusiasm. Gassee is in love with knowledge and has a great respect for what it can do for us. While he is not unaware of the dangers, they are not, he says, what the ordinary citizen thinks they are. The computer is looked at as a tool; it is no evil genie, will not isolate us, will not destroy beauty and diversity. It can intensify and enrich life if we are sensible and open to change. There are, the writer believes, reasons for optimism, and he deftly outlines what those are. For people who have been running scared, this literate book by a transplanted Frenchman--who has many positive things to say about America's entrepreneurial skills--is the ticket to understanding and liberation. There's good gossip and a refreshing look at modern life. International business, creativity and money are an interesting package and the author tackles them with grace and wit. He's a refreshing mentor.