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Army of None

448 pages, 2018

science & nature

science & nature

1064 books
economics & politics

economics & politics

987 books
technology

technology

392 books
Takeaways
Description

Bill Gates’s favorite book of 2018. An Amazon Top Ten Book of the Year. A Pentagon defense expert and former U. S. Army Ranger explores what it would mean to give machines authority over the ultimate decision of life or death. What happens when a Predator drone has as much autonomy as a Google car? Or when a weapon that can hunt its own targets is hacked? 

Although it sounds like science fiction, technology already exists to create weapons that can attack targets without human input. Scharre, who spent years researching military technology, draws on deep research and firsthand experience to explore how these next-generation weapons are changing warfare and what it means for humanity’s future in this important new book.

Understanding Autonomous Weapons

In Army of None, Paul Scharre takes us on a journey to explore the world of autonomous weapons. He explains how these weapons work, their potential impact on warfare, and the ethical implications of their use. It's a must-read if you want to understand the future of warfare.

The Ethical Dilemma

The book raises important ethical questions about the use of autonomous weapons. Should machines be allowed to make life and death decisions? Scharre doesn't shy away from these tough questions, making it a thought-provoking read.

The Future of Warfare

Scharre paints a picture of what warfare could look like in the future with the rise of autonomous weapons. He explores scenarios where these weapons could be used, and the potential consequences. It's a fascinating look into a future that is closer than we might think.

The Role of Humans in War

Despite the rise of autonomous weapons, Scharre argues that humans will still play a crucial role in warfare. He explores the balance between human control and machine autonomy, and the importance of maintaining this balance.

Policy and Regulation

Army of None isn't just about the technology behind autonomous weapons. Scharre also digs into the policy and regulation surrounding these weapons. He highlights the need for international laws and agreements to prevent misuse and escalation.

Quotes 5

Army of None is a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of the revolutionary changes that are transforming the battlefield. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the future of war.

Admiral William H. McRavenAdmiral William H. McRaven - Retired U.S. Admiral

Paul Scharre's book is a fascinating deep-dive into the world of autonomous weapons and warfare, offering a sobering look at the potential future of conflict.

Max BootMax Boot - Military Historian

Army of None is a tour de force of the robotic revolution in warfare. It's an essential guide to understanding the future of war and the threats it presents.

P.W. SingerP.W. Singer - Political Scientist

Paul Scharre's Army of None is a compelling and comprehensive look at the future of warfare. It's a must-read for military leaders, policymakers, and citizens alike.

Robert O. WorkRobert O. Work - Former U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense

Army of None is a thought-provoking examination of the future of warfare. It's a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the potential implications of autonomous weapons.

General Stanley McChrystalGeneral Stanley McChrystal - Retired U.S. General
Admiral William H. McRavenMax BootP.W. SingerRobert O. WorkGeneral Stanley McChrystal

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