The book's title references the biblical story of David and Goliath, symbolizing a smaller, technologically inferior force overcoming a larger one.

Set amidst the tensions of the Cold War, the story commences with the U.S. and the USSR embarking on an arms race to develop the ultimate "smart weapon".

This system, known as the "Information Decision Duel," is an intricate online debate platform that enables two parties to thoroughly examine their arguments before a neutral referee chooses the more persuasive side, thus guiding the weapon's trajectory.

To tackle these issues, the "Zetetic Institute" in the book develops modules called Personal Enhancement Programs (or PEPs), precursors to online learning.

[1] David's Sling received positive reviews for its evocative depiction of a possible future conflict and its exploration of the burgeoning Age of Information.

The publisher underscored the distinctiveness of David's Sling, highlighting Stiegler's dual qualifications as an award-nominated science fiction author and an information technologist.