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The Book of Why
432 pages, 2020
science & nature
1064 books
technology
392 books
philosophy
711 booksUnderstanding causality has revolutionized science and will revolutionize artificial intelligence. Correlation is not causation. This mantra, chanted by scientists for over a century, has led to a virtual prohibition on causal talk: today, it's dead.
The causal revolution, instigated by Judea Pearl and his colleagues, has cut through a century of confusion and established causality--the study of cause and effect--on a firm scientific basis.
His work explains how we can know easy things, like whether it was rain or a sprinkler that wet a sidewalk, and how to answer hard questions, like whether a drug cured an illness.
In The Book of Why, Dana Mackenzie explores the importance of asking 'why' in scientific research. He emphasizes that understanding the reasons behind phenomena can lead to breakthroughs and advancements in various fields.
Mackenzie digs into the concept of cause and effect, explaining how it's a fundamental aspect of scientific discovery. He shows how understanding this relationship can help us make sense of the world around us.
The Book of Why takes a look at the role of statistics in research. Mackenzie explains that while statistics can provide valuable insights, they can also be misleading if not interpreted correctly.
Mackenzie encourages readers to develop their critical thinking skills. He argues that by asking the right questions and challenging assumptions, we can uncover the truth and make informed decisions.
In The Book of Why, you'll find a fascinating exploration of artificial intelligence. Mackenzie discusses how AI can help us understand complex systems and predict outcomes, but also warns of the dangers of relying too heavily on machines.
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The Book of Why is a milestone in the science of cause and effect. It is a must-read for anyone serious about understanding the world.
Judea Pearl - Computer Science PioneerThe Book of Why is a breakthrough, a major step forward in our understanding of the causes of things.
Gary King - Political Science ExpertThe Book of Why is a masterful guide to the study of causality. It's a must-read for students, scientists, and anyone interested in the world around them.
Cathy O'Neil - Mathematician, Author
