Stranger in a Strange Land

Stranger in a Strange Land is very much in this category. It's almost only sci-fi by association. It does have the hallmarks of its age, most notably mental powers (a common zeitgeist in 60s sci-fi). This book probably had the same effect on society that, say, Pacific cultures did on Victorian English society.

on HN, 2011

It's almost literally impossible for me to overstate how much Heinlein's works has shaped who I am as a person, regardless of whatever flaws others might ascribe to his work.

on HN, 2022

There were many other books that influenced me, but the concept of a "Fair Witness" stuck with me - specifically, the idea that one should be aware of what is known versus what is inferred.

on HN, 2017

"Stranger in a Strange Land" by Robert A Heinlein, because it showed me a philosophy and "spirituality", for lack of a better word, that I could agree with.

on HN, 2017

Speaking of "groking", Stranger in a Strange Land, Time Enough for Love and The Fountain Head have probably had the most impact on my mindset.

on HN, 2019

Stranger in a Strange Land is just... excellent. I really appreciate Heinlein and I like his world view.

on HN, 2016

Stranger in a strange land is definitely a great book and Heinlein has to be one of the greats of SF writing.

on HN, 2008