"Cyber Reader is an anthology of extracts from key texts relating to the theme of cyberspace, the virtual communicative space created by digital technologies. Approaching the subject from a variety of angles, including science fiction, this book reflects the multidisciplinary basis of cyberspace and illustrates how different disciplines can inform one another. Over 40 texts are presented in chronological order, beginning with key precursors to cyberspace theory as we know it today. Writings by early theoreticians such as Charles Babbage and Alan Turing, and authors such as E M Forster, help to give a historical perspective to the subject, while texts on theoretical developments show the parallels between real and imagined worlds. Each extract is prefaced by a short introduction by editor Neil Spiller, explaining crucial themes and terms, and providing cross references to related texts. An extensive bibliography enables the reader to pursue particular strands of study that strike their interest. Cyber Reader is an essential source book, introducing students and researchers to cyberspatial theory and practice. It will help the reader understand the wealth of opportunities, both practical and theoretical, that cyberspace engenders and enable them to chart its impact on many disciplines."--Publisher's description.