A fascinating exploration of how computer algorithms can be applied to our everyday lives. In this dazzlingly interdisciplinary work, acclaimed author Brian Christian and cognitive scientist Tom Griffiths show us how the simple, precise algorithms used by computers can also untangle very human questions. Modern life is constrained by limited space and time, limits that give rise to a particular set of problems. What should we do, or leave undone, in a day or a lifetime? How much messiness should we ...
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A fascinating exploration of how computer algorithms can be applied to our everyday lives. In this dazzlingly interdisciplinary work, acclaimed author Brian Christian and cognitive scientist Tom Griffiths show us how the simple, precise algorithms used by computers can also untangle very human questions. Modern life is constrained by limited space and time, limits that give rise to a particular set of problems. What should we do, or leave undone, in a day or a lifetime? How much messiness should we accept? The authors explain how to have better hunches and when to leave things to chance, how to deal with overwhelming choices and how best to connect with others. From finding a spouse to finding a parking spot, from organizing one's inbox to understanding the workings of human memory, Algorithms To Live By is full of practical takeaways to help you solve common decision-making problems and illuminate the workings of the human mind.
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This is an ex-library book and may have the usual library/used-book markings inside. This book has soft covers. In good all round condition. Please note the Image in this listing is a stock photo and may not match the covers of the actual item, 450grams, ISBN: 9780007547999.
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Fine. Glued binding. B-format paperback. 368 p. Audience: General/trade. Sixth printing UK paperback, 2017 William Collins. The book is in fine condition with no creasing to the spine or covers.
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Fine. Glued binding. B-format paperback. In Stock. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Brand New, Perfect Condition, allow 4-14 business days for standard shipping. To Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. protectorate, P.O. box, and APO/FPO addresses allow 4-28 business days for Standard shipping. No expedited shipping. All orders placed with expedited shipping will be cancelled. Over 3, 000, 000 happy customers.
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New. Glued binding. B-format paperback. In Stock. 100% Money Back Guarantee. Brand New, Perfect Condition, allow 4-14 business days for standard shipping. To Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. protectorate, P.O. box, and APO/FPO addresses allow 4-28 business days for Standard shipping. No expedited shipping. All orders placed with expedited shipping will be cancelled. Over 3, 000, 000 happy customers.
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Fair. The cover shows heavy wear. Fast shipping and order satisfaction guaranteed. A portion of your purchase benefits Non-Profit Organizations, First Aid and Fire Stations!
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Fair. Used. Paperback Book. The book is curved. Dent/crease down middle of front cover. The cover shows wear. The cover has curled corners. Outer page edges are faded. Ships only in the US using Safe and Secure Bubble Mailer!
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Fair. Pages include notes, underlining, or highlighting. May have some shelf-wear due to normal use. Your purchase funds free job training and education in the greater Seattle area. Thank you for supporting Goodwill's nonprofit mission!
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May have some shelf-wear due to normal use. Your purchase funds free job training and education in the greater Seattle area. Thank you for supporting Goodwill's nonprofit mission!
So I haven't quite finished reading the book, yet -- I'm on chapter 3. And so far the discussion of the algorithms is very accessible and good. The one thing I miss about it is its limited focus. For example (partial spoiler), the "secretary problem" (where you are trying to hire somebody and are tasked to select the best candidate sequentially out of some fixed number) is only analyzed assuming it is a fixed problem. Maybe the real solution is to simply put out a better ad. Also, how do you even define the "best" candidate? No guarantee that job seekers are sortable like that, and quite likely that any of the top few will do a great job. I wish the book would go more into or at least mention such obvious pitfalls.
Edgar
Apr 28, 2016
Human Algorithmic Design...Wow!
A wonderfully readable book, with clever humor throughout, on an otherwise substantial subject. Christian and Griffiths have explored an array of the key concepts and processes utilized in the fields of computer science and cognitive science, which have analogs to the kinds of decision making people deal with day-to-day. They call this 'Human Algorithmic Design'. I particularly liked the chapters on 'Explore / Exploit' and 'Randomness'. Liked the whole book.