Map and Territory Book Summary

In 'Map and Territory,' Eliezer Yudkowsky explores the intricate relationship between our understanding of the world and the reality that lies beyond our perception. Through a compelling analysis of rationality, belief, and cognitive biases, he challenges readers to reassess their mental frameworks. The book is rich with thought experiments and philosophical insights, prompting deeper contemplation of how we model our environments. Prepare to navigate the complex terrain of knowledge, as Yudkowsky unravels the fine line between the map we create and the territory it represents. A fascinating journey awaits those willing to embark on this intellectual adventure.

By Eliezer Yudkowsky

Published: 2018

"The map is not the territory, but the territory is a part of the map we choose to navigate, shaping our understanding of reality as much as the truths we seek."

Book Review of Map and Territory

When human brains try to do things, they can run into some very strange problems. Self-deception, confirmation bias, magical thinking-it sometimes seems our ingenuity is boundless when it comes to shooting ourselves in the foot.In Map and Territory, decision theorist Eliezer Yudkowsky asks what a "martial art" of rationality would look like, beginning with the basic fighting stance-the orientation toward the world that lets us get the most bang for our cognitive buck, that best positions us to understand and react to brains' strange acts of self-destruction.

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The map is not the territory, but the territory is a part of the map we choose to navigate, shaping our understanding of reality as much as the truths we seek.

Map and Territory

By Eliezer Yudkowsky