32 pages 1 hour read

Cathy O'Neil

Weapons of Math Destruction

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2016

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Weapons of Math Destruction, data scientist Cathy O'Neil explores how biased algorithms, which she calls weapons of math destruction (WMDs), negatively impact marginalized communities in the United States by perpetuating inequalities and systemic biases in areas such as education, criminal justice, finance, and employment, urging accountability and the creation of fairer models. This book discusses socioeconomic oppression, racial discrimination, gender inequality, and discrimination against individuals with mental and physical illnesses.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Cathy O'Neil's Weapons of Math Destruction is widely praised for its insightful critique of big data algorithms and their societal impact, highlighting issues like bias and lack of accountability. However, some readers find the content repetitive and lacking depth in technical explanations. Overall, it's a compelling read that raises important ethical questions.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Weapons of Math Destruction?

Readers who relish thought-provoking critiques of data and algorithms will cherish Weapons of Math Destruction. Comparable to works like Big Data by Mayer-Schönberger and Cukier, and The Age of Surveillance Capitalism by Zuboff, this book is ideal for enthusiasts of technology, ethics, and social justice debates.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Business / Economics

Science / Nature

Technology

Themes

Society: Economics

Values/Ideas: Equality

Values/Ideas: Science & Technology

Genre

Technology