Weapons of Math Destruction by Cathy O'Neil

Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens DemocracyWeapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy by Cathy O'Neil
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First off, I enjoy reading a book that is both informative and engaging. Sometimes books are written in such a way that you can learn a lot from them, it just takes forever to make it through. Or you read quickly through it and wonder if you just wasted a few hours of your life you can never get back. This book is neither of those scenarios.

Cathy O'Neil has a writing style that keeps you interested in what will happen next. She clearly paints a picture of "Big Data" with personal application that most people can identify with for either themselves or someone they know.

It's also fairly obvious that she understands what she is writing about and is able to illustrate each of her points with situations that many of us may face. The challenge for me was trying to figure out where "Big Data" is leading me and if there was something I can do to beat the system. It doesn't feel too good to think that decisions are being made on my behalf simply because of where I was born, grew up or went to University.

Overall, this was a fairly easy read with interesting subject material. And as a bonus, I was able to feel like I learned a thing or two while reading it and was able to come away a little smarter.

Favorite concept: Big data can be gamed, but not always for the better. So watch out for what you wish for, you just might get it.

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