In the tradition of classics such as Lives of the Cell by Lewis Thomas, a bold reframing of our relationship with technology into one that is more positive and human centered. In the digital world, code is the essential primary building block, the equivalent of the cell or DNA in the biological sphere-and almost as mysterious. Code can create entire worlds, real and virtual; it allows us to connect instantly to people and places around the globe; and it performs tasks that were once only possible in science fiction. It is a superpower, and not just in a technical sense. It is also a gateway to ideas. As vividly illustrated by Samuel Arbesman, it is the ultimate connector, providing new insight and meaning into how everything from language and mythology to biblical texts, biology, even our patterns of thought connect with the history and nature of computing. While the building block of code can be used for many wondrous things it can also create deeper wedges in our society and be
