Ever notice that most Crichton plots end with things going back to the status quo?

They're a little like Indiana Jones adventures except with technological terrors instead of ancient artifacts.

I haven't read all of Crichton, but from what I remember, he covered

Nanotech/grey goo

Genetic engineering

Aliens and their freaky orbs

Time travel

As far as I know, he's not really explored the possibilities of space exploration, AI, VR, transhumanism, etc. I mean he's great but I don't think he covers all that much ground.