MORE FUTURE STUFF, by Malcolm Abrams...

MORE FUTURE STUFF, by Malcolm Abrams & Harriet Bernstein (Penguin: $12.99, illustrated). In this second catalogue of soon-to-be-released gadgets, Abrams and Bernstein state “somewhere, every day, someone has a bright idea that solves a problem, big or small, or adds something to enhance the human experience.” But their enthusiasm makes them overlook the fact that many of these products represent solutions to problems that no one really has. Does anyone actually need a pool cue with an aiming line or a level-enhanced putter? Will orange cauliflower or an electronic bike derailleur truly enhance the human condition? The determinedly upbeat text misrepresents some of these products and leaves important questions about others unanswered. The basis of the “fat prevention drink” is a series of experiments that suggest that certain chemicals can slow the accumulation of fat in humans, which is not the same thing as “a drug that can reduce fat by up to 20%.” A $10,000 robot companion for the blind may perform more tasks than a seeing-eye dog, but will it provide the companionship of a live animal? “Future Stuff” proves that necessity isn’t the only mother of invention.