The World's Best Book Summaries
What causes big data discrimination? How do dangerous math models hurt the poor? In Weapons of Math Destruction, Cathy O’Neil argues that dangerous math models disproportionately inflict harm on the poor. This is because they show favoritism towards rich people. Let’s dive deeper into big data’s discrimination problem.
Why do people perform mental accounting when it comes to their finances? What are some examples of mental accounting? One of Richard H. Thaler’s arguments against constrained optimization is that people perform mental accounting. Behavioral economics describes this as a cognitive bias that causes people to place different values on money. We’ll focus on three key examples of mental accounting. Let’s take a look at three common examples of mental accounting.
What’s the current status of pesticide regulation? Why was the public unaware of the dangers of pesticides in the 20th century? Rachel Carson’s groundbreaking book Silent Spring influenced governments to take a closer look at the chemical makeup of pesticides. Even though pesticide spraying is still controversial today, there’s no doubt her book made a difference in the environmental community. Keep reading to learn how public and government opinions on pesticides have changed.
Do you struggle to maintain discipline in your daily routine? Why is discipline so important, and how can you cultivate it? In The Science of Self-Discipline, Peter Hollins explains his science-based approach to discipline. He also provides internal and external strategies that you can use to improve your daily habits and reach long-term goals. Read below for a brief overview of The Science of Self-Discipline.
What is holistic healing? What methods are beneficial for your mind, body, and soul? Holistic healing is a non-traditional way to treat mental and physical conditions. Holistic healing methods—which don’t typically use pharmaceutical or surgical treatments—focus on caring for your physical, mental, spiritual, and social needs. Check out several holistic healing methods that work outside the box when it comes to wellness.
How can you use mathematical models ethically? What are ways to regulate industry use of math models? Cathy O’Neil proposes strategies industries and governments can take to limit the harm caused by dangerous mathematical models. She recommends monitoring math models, regulating them, and setting more positive goals for math models. Keep reading to learn more about ethics in mathematics.
Should fairness be accounted for in economics? How does fairness conflict with budget optimization? Economist Richard H. Thaler argues that consumers are concerned with fairness and cooperation, even when these concerns get in the way of their budget. This is shown by two experiments: the ultimatum game and the prisoner’s dilemma. Discover why fairness in economics doesn’t always have a happy ending.
What are the harmful effects of pesticides on humans? What can pesticides do to insects and animals? In Silent Spring, Rachel Carson warns that pesticides will do more damage to your health than good. Common effects of pesticide spraying on insects, animals, and humans can include nerve damage and convulsions, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, difficulty breathing, and mass death. Find out more about how pesticides are negatively affecting you and other species.
Do you want people to stop walking over you? Do you know how to not be a pushover? When someone is a pushover, it means they’re easy to influence or take advantage of. These kinds of people have a hard time standing up for themselves and usually want to please everyone at their own expense. Check out the problem with being a people pleaser and how to not be a pushover.
Is artificial intelligence a problem or solution for humanity? What are the best books on AI to read right now? Determining AI as a problem or solution isn’t so simple. There’s still so much we don’t know about it, despite our hand in creating it, but there are many experts out there who can help you learn more about the potential benefits and risks of computer intelligence. Below we’ll look at the best books on AI that warn about the evolving technology and advise how to live with it.