Dive into the literary world of Lex Fridman, Computer Scientist.

Lex Fridman is a research scientist, technology enthusiast, and popular podcast host known for his work in artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, and human-robot interaction. Originally from Russia, Fridman currently works as a research scientist at MIT and focuses on the applications of AI in various domains, including deep learning and autonomous driving technologies. His podcast, which features wide-ranging conversations with experts in science, technology, philosophy, history, and a variety of other fields, has garnered a large following due to its in-depth and thoughtful discourse on complex topics.

The greatest education is the one that gets us to ask the biggest questions and seek the deepest truths.❞ — Lex Fridman

Fridman is known for his intellectual curiosity and multidisciplinary approach, traits likely nurtured by a deep commitment to reading and learning. While specific details about his reading habits are less publicized, his discussions often reveal a broad knowledge base that suggests extensive reading across a spectrum of subjects from technical research to philosophical inquiries. Fridman emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and the role of education in understanding and shaping the world, reflecting a belief in the transformative power of acquiring knowledge.

Lex Fridman's Favorite Books

Last Updated: June 2024

The Metamorphosis

Kafka's surreal novella tells the story of Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect, exploring themes of alienation, identity, and the human condition.

Principles: Life and Work

Dalio shares the principles that have guided his successful career as a hedge fund manager and entrepreneur, offering practical advice on decision-making, management, and achieving personal and professional goals.

The Stranger

Camus's existential novel follows Meursault, an indifferent French-Algerian man, whose random act of violence leads to a confrontation with society's expectations and the absurdity of life.

Walden

Thoreau's reflective account of his two years of simple living in a cabin near Walden Pond focuses on the themes of self-sufficiency, the beauty of nature, and his philosophical musings on life and society.
Also recommended by:
Ernest Hemingway 

The Road

Cormac McCarthy's stark and haunting novel follows a father and his young son as they journey through a post-apocalyptic landscape, struggling for survival in a world devoid of civilization.
Also recommended by:
Oprah Winfrey 

Foundation and Earth

The continuation of the Foundation series where Golan Trevize continues his quest to understand the choice he made regarding the galaxy's future, leading to a search for Earth with profound implications.
Also recommended by:
Elon Musk  Sam Altman 

The Stand: The Complete and Uncut Edition

In this epic post-apocalyptic novel, a deadly plague wipes out most of humanity, leading to a struggle between good and evil as the survivors form new societies.

The Art Of War: Complete Text of Sun Tzu

This ancient Chinese military treatise offers strategic insights and tactics for warfare, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, planning, and psychological warfare.
Also recommended by:
Tupac Shakur  Adam Savage  Neil deGrasse Tyson 

The Book of Life: Daily Meditations with Krishnamurti

A collection of thoughtful meditations for each day of the year, drawn from the teachings of Jiddu Krishnamurti, focusing on themes of self-awareness, truth, and understanding.
Also recommended by:
Naval Ravikant 

Meditations

Written by a Roman Emperor and philosopher, these personal writings and aphorisms reflect his Stoic philosophy, providing guidance on how to handle adversity and exercise self-control, and offering insights into ethical living.
Also recommended by:
Sam Altman 

Foundation's Edge

Asimov continues his Foundation saga with the quest to find Earth, the mythical planet where humans originally came from, which leads to revelations that could alter the future of the galaxy.
Also recommended by:
Sam Altman  Elon Musk 

Foundation and Empire

The second book in Asimov's Foundation series, exploring the inevitable decay of a sprawling empire and the efforts by the Foundation to manage and mitigate the catastrophic loss of knowledge.
Also recommended by:
Sam Altman  Elon Musk 

Empire of the Summer Moon: Quanah Parker and the Rise and Fall of the Comanches, the Most Powerful Indian Tribe in American History

Gwynne chronicles the history of the Comanche tribe and their last chief, Quanah Parker, detailing their resistance against European settlers and the eventual decline of their empire.
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