This historical view covers early military connections with the study of the stars and space to the modern day link between the aims of science and the aims of military. It is interesting to see how those aims align and the resulting research and knowledge that comes from less peaceable intentions. I found this to be an intersting concept but this book goes into a large amount of details to help make the point. Too detailed for me.

I’m not sure what I expected from this book. Yes. I expected politics. But at times the political subject was exasperating. I try my best to stay moderate in my views (we'll always have strife and foolishness while a two-party system governs). Seeing one-sided political jabs from scientists is always disheartening.

Reading reviews on this book, I see several complaints that this book jumps all over the place and makes no sense. Yes, it does jump around in time, but it makes sense. It's organized in a way that follows technology as it leads to its use in war. It's fascinating seeing greater details on subjects that I am familiar with. But, unfortunately, most of this book was not written by Neil DeGrasse Tyson. Anyone who that has read one book that he has written can see this. It was not in his voice nor does it have his charm.

So, 3 stars not because of the science, but because:
1. Not a Neil DeGrasse Tyson book – he didn’t pen the book. His name is attached as an author to sell the book or maybe he funded it or obtained the publisher.
2. Closed-minded political jabs (which Avis Lang is entitled to but is a turn off for me when I want SCIENCE).
3. Deviated from a great science/war association about 50% into the book.

It’s a bummer giving an average score to a book that is affiliated with my all-time favorite scientist (and one of the few people that I’d be starstruck meeting).

This was a thought-provoking, balanced and judicious book that spelled out plainly and honestly the realities od space exploration and war.

But it was also an unlooked for source of hope and comfort.

Unless you really want nitty gritty details and history of numerous different technological inventions throughout history and how they were used for war, first, this book is for you. If that’s not what you’re about, here is a TLDR:

it’s pretty crazy to think that much of the technology we use today had its birth through warfare first, and into civilian hands second. Take the telescope for example. Originally used by commanders who needed to see far into the distance what their enemies were doing, therefore being able to guide their decision making process. Another modern example? Satellite GPS: originally used in the first gulf wars but eventually as that tech got better and better, cheaper, less accurate versions became available to the public. So there you have it, pretty crazy to think about, huh?

I disagree with the name as well, I feel like it should be called “Exploited For War: The Unspoken Alliance Between Science and The Military”. Not only does Mr. Tyson speak of other science disciplines that have been exploited for killing humans, but I think “accessory” makes the scientists more complicit.

A good chunk of pages was dedicated to explaining the political and funding history of space programs between countries which, for me, was the most fascinating part of this book.

This lays out the relationship between Astrophysics and Military (and private industries...) well. Although everything was interesting, I think it would have benefited from being a bit slimmer and staying focused on the title topic.

This book was not what I expected with the title. It was however a great read and a great history lesson on astrophysics. In some parts it took me back to my physics class and I was surprised to find I remembered some items.
If you are interested in the link between astrophysics and military efforts, this is the book for you. Many of the connections were unknown to me and as often stated "follow the money" and you will see why something was researched. It is sad that countries overall seem to have more interest in funding war-efforts than research that could advance mankind. Imagine what we could come up with in regards to our trash (instead of just shooting it into space), scarcity of resources and improvement of our standard of living.

3.5 stars. Another good book from NDT so far I've loved all of the books I've read from him...His ability to cram so much background info, details, and facts while still grabbing your attention is incredible...Looking forward to seeing him live next week...should be a blast.