Are there algorithms to live by?
Do computers make better decisions than our human gut instincts? Sometimes. But it turns out that often, the human brain has good problem-solving skills on its own. What happens when we connect computer science to our brain’s decision-making skills?
Earlier this year, I heard about an interesting book while listening to the Nerds on Draft podcast. They were talking about Algorithms to Live By, wherein authors Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths walk through several everyday scenarios that we’ve all encountered and relate those to various concepts from the world of computer science.
I just finished reading it and found it quite interesting. Although I have a background in technology and studied computer science for a while, this is a good read for the lay person, and does a good job connecting the computer science aspects to everyday problems that relate to all.
What sort of problems?
- When to stop looking and call it “good enough”
- Sorting
- Scheduling
- When to think less
- When to let things slide
- How we connect and network
- Game theory – how others think
There’s several other topics as well, and I connected a lot of mental dots as it became clearer just how many of our everyday problems are also present in our computerized world.
It as a good read. Recommended. Buy it now.
Looking for other book recommendations? Hit that link for some of my favorites.
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