That natural selection can produce changes within a type is disputed by no one, not even the staunchest creationist. But that it can transform one species into another — that, in fact, has never been observed.

There is no indisputable proof for the big bang," said Hollus. "And there is none for evolution. And yet you accept those. Why hold the question of whether there is a creator to a higher standard?

Virtual reality is just air guitar writ large.

Secrecy was the problem; transparency the obvious cure.

Not wanting to die was another universal constant, it seemed.

Paul Levinson has outdone himself: The Plot to Save Socrates is a philosophically rich gem full of big ideas and wonderful time-travel tricks.

It is either coincidence piled on top of coincidence," said Hollus, "or it is deliberate design.