{"title":"Brian Christian","description":"\u003cp\u003eBrian Christian explores the intersection of human behaviour and technology, weaving insights from \u003cem\u003ecomputing\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003escience\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003epersonal development\u003c\/em\u003e to offer fresh perspectives on everyday challenges. His work reflects a deep curiosity about how algorithms can influence decision-making and guide our lives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eReaders can expect thoughtful examinations of complex ideas presented with clarity and relevance, making sophisticated topics accessible and engaging. Christian’s books invite reflection on the evolving relationship between mind, machine, and morality.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"algorithms-to-live-by","title":"Algorithms to Live By","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAlgorithms to Live By\u003c\/em\u003e by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths is a captivating examination of how the powerful, precisely defined algorithms utilised by computers can be harnessed to address the quandaries and dilemmas of everyday human life. Blending the disciplines of computer science and cognitive psychology, this book reveals that the principles guiding computer algorithms are not only applicable to data and machines but can also provide invaluable insights into human decision-making and organisation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eChristian and Griffiths delve into the constraints of modern existence—limited space and time—and explore the problems these limits present. They raise profound yet relatable questions: What should we prioritise or defer in our daily routines? How much imperfection can we tolerate? Through vivid explanations and engaging narrative, the authors show readers how to make sounder judgements and when to embrace randomness. They tackle a wide array of topics, from optimising your daily schedule to managing the clutter in your life, from forming meaningful relationships to overcoming the paralysis of choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith enlightening applications, the authors illustrate how these algorithms can have a tangible impact, such as the \"explore\/exploit\" algorithm, which balances the exploration of new opportunities and the exploitation of known resources. Whether determining the best way to sort your inbox or the most efficient method to find a parking spot, every algorithm discussed is peppered with practical takeaways. Moreover, the book delves into the science of memory, revealing how algorithmic principles can enhance the retention of information.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe true brilliance of \u003cem\u003eAlgorithms to Live By\u003c\/em\u003e lies in its ability to illuminate the mechanics of the human mind through the lens of computer science. By providing a fresh perspective on daily decision-making, Christian and Griffiths empower readers to conquer the chaos of modern life with algorithmic efficiency. This interdisciplinary gem offers not only new ways to think about everyday challenges but also a deeper understanding of the algorithms that permeate both technology and human cognition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45685663203564,"sku":"9780007547999","price":22.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780007547999.jpg?v=1725453546"},{"product_id":"the-alignment-problem","title":"The Alignment Problem","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Alignment Problem\u003c\/i\u003e by Brian Christian delves deep into the ethical challenges and dilemmas posed by the rapid development and deployment of artificial intelligence in our daily lives. As AI systems gain more influence over consequential decisions—ranging from the news we are exposed to, the terms of our mortgage, to the simple social interactions we engage in—the necessity to align these systems with human values becomes ever more critical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis book explores real-world examples and compelling narratives, such as the AI program that manipulates video game rules to 'win' by cheating, or the biased translation algorithms of major tech giants. Christian examines the ever-expanding role of AI, emphasising the risks involved when these systems operate unregulated, often perpetuating or even exacerbating biases and ethical failings inherent in their design and data.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough meticulous research and engaging storytelling, bestselling author Brian Christian provides readers with an accessible yet thorough understanding of what the alignment problem is, why it matters, and how leading scientists and researchers are grappling with this issue today. Whether it’s discussing the infamous case of sexist algorithms or the broader implications for democracy and personal freedom, Christian brings clarity to an incredibly complex topic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis blend of rigorous analysis and relatable anecdotes makes \u003ci\u003eThe Alignment Problem\u003c\/i\u003e a vital read for anyone interested in the intersection of artificial intelligence and ethics. This book doesn’t just describe the problems; it also delves into potential solutions, offering a hopeful yet realistic outlook on how we can harness the power of AI responsibly and equitably.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMike Krieger, cofounder of Instagram, asserts that this is \"vital reading\" and indeed, \u003ci\u003eThe Alignment Problem\u003c\/i\u003e serves as an indispensable guide to understanding one of the most pressing issues of our time. Urgent and fascinating, Brian Christian's work is an essential primer for AI researchers, policy-makers, and anyone vested in ensuring a just and fair future in the age of artificial intelligence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45706957029612,"sku":"9781786494337","price":30.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781786494337.jpg?v=1725893872"},{"product_id":"the-alignment-problem-by-brian-christian-9780393868333","title":"The Alignment Problem","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday’s “machine-learning” systems, trained by data, are so effective that we’ve invited them to see and hear for us—and to make decisions on our behalf. But alarm bells are ringing. Recent years have seen an eruption of concern as the field of machine learning advances. When the systems we attempt to teach will not, in the end, do what we want or what we expect, ethical and potentially existential risks emerge. Researchers call this \u003cem\u003ethe alignment problem\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSystems cull résumés until, years later, we discover that they have inherent gender biases. Algorithms decide bail and parole—and appear to assess Black and White defendants differently. We can no longer assume that our mortgage application, or even our medical tests, will be seen by human eyes. And as autonomous vehicles share our streets, we are increasingly putting our lives in their hands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe mathematical and computational models driving these changes range in complexity from something that can fit on a spreadsheet to a complex system that might credibly be called “artificial intelligence.” They are steadily replacing both human judgment and explicitly programmed software.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn best-selling author Brian Christian’s riveting account, we meet the alignment problem’s “first-responders,” and learn their ambitious plan to solve it before our hands are completely off the wheel. In a masterful blend of history and on-the-ground reporting, Christian traces the explosive growth in the field of machine learning and surveys its current, sprawling frontier. Readers encounter a discipline finding its legs amid exhilarating and sometimes terrifying progress. Whether they—and we—succeed or fail in solving the alignment problem will be a defining human story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Alignment Problem\u003c\/em\u003e offers an unflinching reckoning with humanity’s biases and blind spots, our own unstated assumptions and often contradictory goals. A dazzlingly interdisciplinary work, it takes a hard look not only at our technology but at our culture—and finds a story by turns harrowing and hopeful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Unknown","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47934268604652,"sku":"9780393868333","price":54.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780393868333-the-alignment-problem.jpg?v=1783909118"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.pro\/collections\/brian-christian.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}