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Algorithms to Live By
The Computer Science of Human Decisions
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Check link for latest rating. ( 34,302 ratings, 3,089 reviews)
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Algorithms to Live By
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
A fascinating exploration of how computer algorithms can be applied to our everyday lives.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
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Description
Algorithms to Live By by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths is a captivating examination of how the powerful, precisely defined algorithms utilised by computers can be harnessed to address the quandaries and dilemmas of everyday human life. Blending the disciplines of computer science and cognitive psychology, this book reveals that the principles guiding computer algorithms are not only applicable to data and machines but can also provide invaluable insights into human decision-making and organisation.
Christian and Griffiths delve into the constraints of modern existenceβlimited space and timeβand explore the problems these limits present. They raise profound yet relatable questions: What should we prioritise or defer in our daily routines? How much imperfection can we tolerate? Through vivid explanations and engaging narrative, the authors show readers how to make sounder judgements and when to embrace randomness. They tackle a wide array of topics, from optimising your daily schedule to managing the clutter in your life, from forming meaningful relationships to overcoming the paralysis of choice.
With enlightening applications, the authors illustrate how these algorithms can have a tangible impact, such as the "explore/exploit" algorithm, which balances the exploration of new opportunities and the exploitation of known resources. Whether determining the best way to sort your inbox or the most efficient method to find a parking spot, every algorithm discussed is peppered with practical takeaways. Moreover, the book delves into the science of memory, revealing how algorithmic principles can enhance the retention of information.
The true brilliance of Algorithms to Live By lies in its ability to illuminate the mechanics of the human mind through the lens of computer science. By providing a fresh perspective on daily decision-making, Christian and Griffiths empower readers to conquer the chaos of modern life with algorithmic efficiency. This interdisciplinary gem offers not only new ways to think about everyday challenges but also a deeper understanding of the algorithms that permeate both technology and human cognition.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Algorithms to Live By is applauded for merging computational models with human psychology in an accessible manner. Reviewers find it compelling, entertaining, and packed with practical advice for efficiently managing time, space, and effort. The book is also praised for its humour, wisdom, and insightful exploration of everyday dilemmas through the lenses of maths, computer science, and philosophy.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780007547999
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 April 2017
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: William Collins
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 23.0mm
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 260g
Pages: 368
About the Author
Brian Christian is the bestselling author of The Most Human Human, which was named a Wall Street Journal bestseller and a New Yorker favorite book of 2011. His writing has appeared in Wired, The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal , and The Paris Review, among others. Brian has been a featured guest on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, The Charlie Rose Show, NPR''s Radiolab, and the BBC, and has lectured at Google, Microsoft, SETI, the Santa Fe Institute, the Royal Institution of Great Britain, and the London School of Economics.Tom Griffiths s an Associate Professor of Psychology and Cognitive Science and Director of the Institute of Cognitive and Brain Sciences at the University of California, Berkeley. He has published over 150 scientific papers on a wide range of topics, including machine learning and cultural evolution in addition to cognitive psychology, and he has received numerous early career awards, including those from the National Science Foundation, the Sloan Foundation, and the American Psychological Association.
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