This book is all about how computer science can be used to help make better human decisions. It covers a wide range of topics, from how algorithms can be used to optimize daily routines, to understanding the biases that influence our choices. The author provides plenty of real-world examples and case studies to illustrate his points.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone who wants to learn more about how computer science can be used to optimize human decisions. It’s especially useful for people who work in fields such as data analytics, marketing, or business operations.
Pros :
- This book is packed full of useful information on how to make better human decisions using computer science.
- The author provides a lot of real-world examples and case studies, making the concepts easier to understand.
- This book can be applied to a wide range of topics, from optimizing daily routines, to understanding bias.
Cons :
- The book can be dense at times, and may require some effort to get through
- It can be a bit overwhelming due to its wide scope
- Some of the examples are quite dated
Learn more about the author
Brian Christian is a computer scientist and journalist who has written for The New York Times, Wired, and National Public Radio. He is the co-founder of Mangrove Capital Partners, a technology investment firm.
Reader Reviews
“If you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of the algorithms that make our lives run smoothly, then this is the book for you.”
“Algorithms to Live By is a delightfully written and lucid book that introduces the reader to a wide range of computer science concepts via their application in everyday life. Christian does an excellent job of explaining complex topics clearly and without condescension, making this book suitable for general readers while still providing enough depth to be interesting to experts.”
“Utterly fascinating.”
“This book is crammed full of information on how to make better decisions using computer science. The author provides plenty of case studies and examples, making it easy for the reader to understand.”