Author: Brian Christian & Tom Griffiths

“Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions” by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths is a fascinating exploration of how computer algorithms can be applied to everyday life to solve common decision-making problems¹².

Summary

The book delves into various algorithms and how they can help us make better decisions in different aspects of life:

1. Optimal Stopping: This algorithm helps in making decisions about when to stop looking for something better and settle for what you have. For example, it can be applied to finding a parking spot or choosing a life partner.
2. Explore/Exploit Trade-off: This concept helps balance between exploring new options and exploiting known ones. It’s useful in scenarios like trying new restaurants versus going to your favorite one.
3. Sorting: The book explains different sorting algorithms like bubble sort, insertion sort, and merge sort, and how they can be applied to organizing your home or workspace.
4. Caching: This principle helps in managing limited resources efficiently, such as deciding which items to keep in easy reach and which to store away.
5. Scheduling: Algorithms for scheduling can help prioritize tasks and manage time more effectively, ensuring that deadlines are met without unnecessary stress.

Reviews

The book has received positive reviews for its insightful and practical approach:

• Goodreads: It has a rating of 4.13 out of 5, with readers praising its ability to make complex computer science concepts accessible and applicable to daily life².
• SuperSummary: The book is noted for its interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from computer science and psychology to offer practical advice on decision-making¹.
• Blinkist: The book is highlighted for showing how algorithms can lead to a better life by helping solve problems, make decisions, and get more things done³.

Overall, “Algorithms to Live By” is celebrated for transforming the wisdom of computer science into strategies for human living, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in optimizing their life through the lens of algorithms.

Source:
(1) Algorithms To Live By Summary | SuperSummary. https://www.supersummary.com/algorithms-to-live-by/summary/.
(2) Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions – Goodreads. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25666050-algorithms-to-live-by.
(3) Algorithms to Live By Summary of Key Ideas and Review – Blinkist. https://www.blinkist.com/en/books/algorithms-to-live-by-en.
(4) Algorithms to Live By Summary – Littler Books. https://www.littlerbooks.com/summary/algorithms-to-live-by.
(5) Book Summary: Algorithms to Live By – Luca Pallotta. https://www.lucapallotta.com/book-summary-algorithms-to-live-by/.