Author Ted Chiang in Conversation with MIT President Sally Kornbluth

Join us for a special conversation with author Ted Chiang and MIT President Sally Kornbluth about Exhalation. President Kornbluth has chosen Chiang’s celebrated science fiction short story collection to celebrate 10 years of MIT Reads. Exploring the book’s provocative questions about technology and humanity, their discussion will focus on the stories "The Truth of Fact, the Truth of Feeling,” "The Lifecycle of Software Objects,” “Omphalos,” and “What’s Expected of Us.” In this fantastical and elegant collection, Chiang wrestles with the oldest questions on Earth – What is the nature of the universe? What does it mean to be human? – and ones that no one else has even imagined. And, each in its own way, the stories prove that complex and thoughtful science fiction can rise to new heights of beauty, meaning, and compassion. This event is part of MIT Reads, a program that embraces the power of reading and storytelling to cultivate social connection, individual reflection, and a sense of our shared humanity. Designed to foster empathy, curiosity, and belonging, MIT Reads brings together the campus community – and readers everywhere – through common reading experiences, author talks, and group discussions. -- This hybrid event is free and open to all, but pre-registration is required. For online participants, the URL will be emailed closer to the event. Accessibility: Our events are enriched by your presence, and we are committed to making them accessible. If you require accommodations to join us, please provide details when you register or email [email protected]. We appreciate receiving your request by Monday, November 30.