Elon Musk, the visionary behind companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter), is one of the most influential figures in the technology world. Known for his ambitious goals, such as colonising Mars and addressing the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), Musk’s innovative thinking and engineering prowess have captured global attention.
But what many may not realise is that Musk’s journey toward becoming a world-renowned engineer began with his love for reading, particularly science fiction.
Elon Musk: A keen reader from an early age
Musk’s fascination with reading started in his childhood. Growing up in South Africa, he was often described as a shy and socially awkward child who found solace in books. According to Walter Isaacson’s biography of Musk, he would read anything he could get his hands on, from encyclopaedias to superhero comics.
However, it was the science fiction novels that truly captivated him and sparked his imagination.
Among the many books that influenced Musk, three stand out as particularly significant: “The Moon is a Harsh Mistress” by Robert Heinlein, Isaac Asimov’s “Foundation” series, and “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams. These books not only entertained young Musk but also planted the seeds for the groundbreaking ideas and companies he would later create.
“The Moon is a Harsh Mistress” by Robert Heinlein
Published in 1966, Robert Heinlein’s “The Moon is a Harsh Mistress” is a classic of science fiction that explores themes of rebellion, artificial intelligence, and the ethics of technology. The story centres around a supercomputer named Mike, which gains consciousness and aids the protagonists in their fight for freedom, ultimately sacrificing itself for the cause.
For Musk, this book was a profound influence.
According to Isaacson, it led him to ponder whether AI could be a force for good or a potential threat to humanity. This early exposure to the concept of AI and its moral implications would later inform Musk’s cautious approach to AI development and his advocacy for ethical AI practices.
Isaac Asimov’s “Foundation” Series
Another pivotal influence on Musk was Isaac Asimov’s “Foundation” series, a collection of books that delve into the complexities of robotics, mathematics, and the future of civilization.
Central to the series are Asimov’s famous “Three Laws of Robotics,” with a particular focus on the Zeroth Law, which states: “A robot may not harm humanity, or, by inaction, allow humanity to come to harm.”
These ideas resonated deeply with Musk, inspiring him to pursue space exploration and to harness AI for the betterment of humanity. Musk has often cited the “Foundation” series as a driving force behind his work at SpaceX, where he aims to make space travel accessible and safe for future generations.
In a 2018 tweet, Musk even referred to the Zeroth Law as “fundamental” to the creation of SpaceX.
“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams
Douglas Adams’ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is a humorous and thought-provoking exploration of existential questions, the meaning of life, and the nature of the universe. For Musk, this book provided a much-needed escape from the challenges of adolescence and helped him navigate his existential struggles.
The story follows a human who is rescued by a spaceship just before Earth is destroyed. As he travels through the galaxy, he grapples with profound questions about life and existence. One of the book’s most famous scenes involves a supercomputer tasked with answering the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything—only to respond with the cryptic answer: “42.” This idea of not fully understanding the questions we ask stayed with Musk and influenced his approach to problem-solving and innovation.
Musk was also intrigued by the book’s suggestion that we might be living in a simulation controlled by higher beings, an idea that has continued to fascinate him throughout his life.
The lasting impact of science fiction on Musk’s vision
The influence of these science-fiction classics on Elon Musk cannot be overstated. They shaped his worldview, fueled his imagination, and provided a framework for the ambitious projects he would later undertake. Whether it’s colonising Mars, advancing AI in a responsible manner, or exploring the mysteries of the universe, Musk’s endeavours are deeply rooted in the lessons and ideas he absorbed from these books.
Science fiction, with its blend of imaginative storytelling and profound ethical questions, played a crucial role in turning a bookish, introverted child into one of the most influential engineers and entrepreneurs of our time. Musk’s journey is a testament to the power of literature to inspire, challenge, and ultimately transform the way we see the world.
