Against the Machine: On the Unmaking of Humanity by Paul Kingsnorth

Against the Machine: On the Unmaking of Humanity is Paul Kingsnorth’s examination of how technology and techno-capitalism may be reshaping human life. It connects the history of industrialisation with artificial intelligence and considers spirituality, nature and heritage as ways of holding on to human values.

At a glance

Paul Kingsnorth explores technology and techno-capitalism through historical, spiritual and cultural themes.
The book considers the effects of industrialisation and artificial intelligence on ideas of humanity.
Its proposed points of resistance include connection to nature and heritage, and attention to spiritual concerns.

Price

£16.60Save 34%

Reference price: ~~£25.00~~

Price checked: 12 Nov 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Customer feedback describes the writing as engaging and thoughtful, and the book as well-researched and refreshing to read.
Its scope connects technological change with history, culture and spirituality rather than treating AI in isolation.

Cons

The book’s critical argument may not satisfy readers looking for a consistently persuasive case.
Customers report mixed reactions to its tone, and some wanted practical solutions to the problems discussed.

Technical specifications

8 specifications

Publication
Publisher	Particular Books
Publication date	23 Sept. 2025
Language	English
Print length	368 pages
ISBN-10	0241788404
ISBN-13	978-0241788400

Dimensions and installation
Weight listed	584 g
Dimensions	16.3 x 3.4 x 24.2 cm

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Readers interested in critical perspectives on technology, techno-capitalism and artificial intelligence.
Readers who enjoy essays linking modern life with history, nature, heritage and spirituality.

Less suited to

Readers seeking a practical guide to using AI or a book focused on actionable solutions.
Readers who prefer a narrowly technical or consistently upbeat treatment of technology.

Against the Machine: On the Unmaking of Humanity by Paul Kingsnorth · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.5 / 5 · 814 ratings

5 stars74%74%
4 stars15%15%
3 stars6%6%
2 stars3%3%
1 star2%2%

Customer feedback highlights engaging, thoughtful writing and describes the book as well-researched and refreshing. Reactions are mixed on the strength of its argument and its tone, while some readers wanted solutions. That distinction matters for this book’s broad critique of technology: it may engage readers seeking reflection on AI, culture and spirituality, but may frustrate those who expect a tightly conclusive argument or practical guidance.

Positive themes

Customers describe the writing as engaging and thoughtful, and the book as well-researched and refreshing to read.

Negative themes

Some customers wanted more solutions to the problems raised.

Mixed feedback

Feedback is mixed on the argument’s persuasiveness and on the tone.

Frequently asked questions

What is Against the Machine about?

Paul Kingsnorth examines how technology and techno-capitalism may be changing human life, connecting industrial history and artificial intelligence with cultural and spiritual questions.

Does the book offer practical solutions?

It presents connection to land, nature and heritage, alongside attention to spiritual matters, as important. Customer feedback also notes that some readers wanted more solutions to the problems discussed.

Who is this book suited to?

It may suit readers interested in critical, cultural and spiritual perspectives on technology. It is less suited to buyers seeking a practical AI manual.