[mlsu]

I've had a startling number of conversations exactly like this:

"Oh, you read as well? What do your read?"

"[this book], [that book]"

"Those are all non-fiction, any fiction?"

"I don't read fiction. If I'm not going to learn anything, it's a waste of time."

"..."

[thadt]

Oh man, have I gotten to read a lot of history recently.

And also fiction.

Frequently at the same time.

[somat]

I like the quote that claims that as a science history is probably closer to animal husbandry than anything else.

Don't get me wrong I like history and think it a critical thing to study. but it is very telling to try ones hand at meta-history, the history of history, look to how the narrative of a historical subject changes through time and space.

An easy one is world war 2 documentaries. The difference in tone and focus of those done right after the cessation of hostilities compared to those done later is fascinating.

[dazed_confused]

Just had the pleasure of listening to a Turing Award winner, and to answer a question about how to know what issues could come up. His response, "Read science fiction!" helps scientists imagine the future. I'll take his advice and stick to my mostly fiction reading :)

[sph]

Man, I’m the opposite. In the information age, in my leisure time reading books, I don’t want to learn any more facts and data points. I just want to enjoy a good story.

[krupan]

Fiction is my favorite, because the authors admit they are just making it up.