In 'The Book of Why', Judea Pearl and Dana Mackenzie unveil the profound concepts of causality and its pivotal role in understanding the world around us. They challenge traditional statistical methods, introducing the causal revolution that will change how we interpret data. Through captivating anecdotes and accessible explanations, the authors reveal the tools necessary to discern cause from correlation. Readers will be drawn into the mystery of why things happen, unfolding layers of knowledge that provoke deeper inquiry. This book is not just about statistics; it's a pathway to mastering the art of reasoning itself.
By Judea Pearl, Dana Mackenzie
Published: 2018
"The power of causal thinking is the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe, allowing us to transform mere correlation into profound understanding."
A Turing Award-winning computer scientist and statistician shows how understanding causality has revolutionized science and will revolutionize artificial intelligence "Correlation is not causation." This mantra, chanted by scientists for more than a century, has led to a virtual prohibition on causal talk. Today, that taboo is 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 made a sidewalk wet; and how to answer hard questions, like whether a drug cured an illness. Pearl's work enables us to know not just whether one thing causes another: it lets us explore the world that is and the worlds that could have been. It shows us the essence of human thought and key to artificial intelligence. Anyone who wants to understand either needs The Book of Why.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
Bryan Johnson is an American entrepreneur, investor, and futurist, best known for founding Braintree, a payments company that was acquired by PayPal, and Kernel, a company focused on developing brain-computer interfaces. Johnson is deeply interested in advancing human cognition and longevity through technological innovation. His work at Kernel seeks to better understand the brain and its potential to enhance human intelligence. He is also the founder of OS Fund, which invests in companies tackling complex, world-changing problems in areas like health and energy. Johnson is a strong advocate for using technology to extend human potential and reshape the future of humanity.
Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
Michael Pollan is a renowned American author and journalist, celebrated for his insightful explorations of food, agriculture, and human culture. His groundbreaking book, "The Omnivore's Dilemma," published in 2006, critically examines the complexities of the modern food industry and has become a seminal work in food studies. Pollan's engaging narrative style and thorough research have earned him a place on The New York Times Best Seller list multiple times. In addition to his literary contributions, he is also a professor of journalism at the University of California, Berkeley. Pollan's work continues to influence public discourse on sustainable eating and the ethical implications of food choices.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Matt Mullenweg is an influential American entrepreneur and web developer, best known for co-founding WordPress, the open-source software that powers over 40% of the web. Born in 1984 in Houston, Texas, Mullenweg's work has revolutionized digital publishing and democratized web content creation. As the CEO of Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, he has expanded the platform's reach and capabilities, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users. Mullenweg is also an advocate for open-source software and has contributed significantly to its proliferation and adoption. His impact on digital literature and publishing is profound, enabling countless individuals and organizations to share their voices online.
Showing 8 of 19 related collections
“The power of causal thinking is the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe, allowing us to transform mere correlation into profound understanding.”
The Book of Why
By Judea Pearl, Dana Mackenzie
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Judea Pearl is a renowned computer scientist and philosopher best known for his pioneering work in artificial intelligence and statistics. He is the author of several influential books, including "Causality: Models, Reasoning, and Inference," which has become a foundational text in the field of causal inference. Pearl's writing is characterized by its clarity, rigor, and the ability to bridge complex theoretical concepts with practical applications. His contributions have not only advanced the field of AI but have also significantly influenced fields such as social sciences and epidemiology.
Dana Mackenzie is a distinguished author and mathematician known for his engaging exploration of mathematical concepts in literature. He is the author of notable works such as 'The Universe in Zero Words' and 'The Big Splat, or How Our Moon Came to Be', which blends narrative with scientific inquiry. Mackenzie’s writing is characterized by its clarity, creativity, and ability to make complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. He holds a Ph.D. in mathematics, and his background informs his ability to communicate intricate subjects with enthusiasm and insight.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
For use in schools and libraries only. Gen is plucked from the king's prison by the king's magus who wants his assistance in stealing an ancient treasure.
In "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion," renowned psychologist Robert Cialdini unveils the hidden forces that drives our decisions. Through captivating anecdotes and groundbreaking research, he introduces six key principles of persuasion that shape everyday interactions. From the power of reciprocity to the allure of authority, Cialdini reveals how marketers, salespeople, and even friends subtly manipulate our choices. As you navigate the complexities of influence, you'll discover how to recognize and harness these tactics for your own benefit. Prepare to question your instincts and master the art of persuasion—are you ready to see behind the curtain?
In 'Predictably Irrational', Dan Ariely delves into the hidden forces that shape our decisions, revealing how we often act against our own best interests in surprising ways. Through engaging experiments, he uncovers the psychological biases and societal influences that drive our seemingly irrational behaviors. Ariely challenges the notion of human rationality, showing that our choices are often predictable and systematically flawed. This revised and expanded edition offers fresh insights, making it essential reading for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of human decision-making. Prepare to rethink your understanding of choice and discover how to make better decisions in an unpredictable world.
In 'Fiasco,' Frank Partnoy unveils the chaotic world of financial markets, where seemingly sound decisions can lead to catastrophic failures. He provides a gripping narrative of the 2008 financial crisis, dissecting the miscalculations and greed that fueled it. Through engaging anecdotes and sharp insights, Partnoy challenges readers to rethink risk and the nature of financial systems. This exploration serves as both a cautionary tale and a deep dive into the mechanisms that govern our economy. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about finance and the true cost of ambition.
In 'The Undoing Project', Michael Lewis explores the groundbreaking collaboration between two Israeli psychologists, Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, whose revolutionary theories on decision-making changed our understanding of human rationality. Their research reveals the cognitive biases that influence our choices, often leading us astray in unexpected ways. Through compelling anecdotes and vivid storytelling, Lewis uncovers how their work not only transformed psychology but also impacted economics, medicine, and public policy. As their friendship deepens amid professional triumphs and personal struggles, the book delves into the complexities of the human mind and the power of perspective. Will their insights lead to a newfound awareness of our own thought processes? Discover the fascinating tale behind the science of thinking.
In 'Buffett', Roger Lowenstein unveils the fascinating life of Warren Buffett, the oracle of Omaha. This biography paints a vivid portrait of Buffett's unique investment philosophies and relentless pursuit of value. Readers are drawn into the world of one of the wealthiest men, revealing the secrets behind his long-term success and humility. Learn how Buffett's upbringing and experiences shaped his extraordinary strategies in an unpredictable market. This compelling narrative will leave you intrigued by the man behind the fortune and the timeless wisdom he imparts.
In 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,' Maya Angelou unfolds her extraordinary journey from a childhood marked by trauma and racial segregation to the discovery of her own voice and resilience. Through vivid storytelling, she reveals the complexities of growing up as a Black girl in the American South, facing both the challenges of her identity and the healing power of literature. Her poetic reflections illuminate the struggles of finding freedom and self-acceptance amidst oppression. This memoir is not just a tale of survival, but a celebration of the human spirit's indomitable strength. Readers are invited to explore how art and experience intertwine to create a life of purpose and hope.
In 'Liquid Life', Zygmunt Bauman explores the fluidity of contemporary existence, where traditional structures and certainties dissolve into the chaos of modernity. He delves into how an ever-changing world reshapes our identities, relationships, and morals, leading to a sense of instability and anxiety. Bauman's piercing insights reveal the paradox of endless choice in personal freedom, juxtaposed against the isolation and alienation faced by individuals. With each page, readers are compelled to reflect on their own lives and the nature of existence in a world that offers fleeting connections and liquid commitments. Will we adapt to this liquid life, or will we be washed away in the tide of uncertainty?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
