Non-fiction books that explore AI’s impact on society
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is code or technologies that perform complex calculations, an area that encompasses simulations, data processing and analytics.
AI has increasingly grown in importance, becoming a game changer in many industries, including healthcare, education and finance. The use of AI has been proven to double levels of effectiveness, efficiency and accuracy in many processes, and reduced cost in different market sectors.
AI’s impact is being felt across the globe, so, it is important we understand the effects of AI on society and our daily lives.
Better understanding of AI and all that it does and can mean can be gained from well-researched AI books.
Books on AI provide insights into the use and applications of AI. They describe the advancement of AI since its inception and how it has shaped society so far. In this article, we will be examining recommended best books on AI that focus on the societal implications.
For those who don’t have time to read entire books, book summary apps like Headway will be of help.
Book 1: “Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies” by Nick Bostrom
Nick Bostrom is a Swedish philosopher with a background in computational neuroscience, logic and AI safety.
In his book, Superintelligence, he talks about how AI can surpass our current definitions of intelligence and the possibilities that might ensue.
Bostrom also talks about the possible risks to humanity if superintelligence is not managed properly, stating AI can easily become a threat to the entire human race if we exercise no control over the technology.
Bostrom offers strategies that might curb existential risks, talks about how Al can be aligned with human values to reduce those risks and suggests teaching AI human values.
Superintelligence is recommended for anyone who is interested in knowing and understanding the implications of AI on humanity’s future.
Book 2: “AI Superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order” by Kai-Fu Lee
AI expert Kai-Fu Lee’s book, AI Superpowers: China, Silicon Valley, and the New World Order, examines the AI revolution and its impact so far, focusing on China and the USA.
He concentrates on the competition between these two countries in AI and the various contributions to the advancement of the technology made by each. He highlights China’s advantage, thanks in part to its larger population.
China’s significant investment so far in AI is discussed, and its chances of becoming a global leader in AI. Lee believes that cooperation between the countries will help shape the future of global power dynamics and therefore the economic development of the world.
In thes book, Lee states AI has the ability to transform economies by creating new job opportunities with massive impact on all sectors.
If you are interested in knowing the geo-political and economic impacts of AI, this is one of the best books out there.
Book 3: “Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence” by Max Tegmark
Max Tegmark’s Life 3.0 explores the concept of humans living in a world that is heavily influenced by AI. In the book, he talks about the concept of Life 3.0, a future where human existence and society will be shaped by AI. It focuses on many aspects of humanity including identity and creativity.
Tegmark envisions a time where AI has the ability to reshape human existence. He also emphasises the need to follow ethical principles to ensure the safety and preservation of human life.
Life 3.0 is a thought-provoking book that challenges readers to think deeply about the choices humanity may face as we progress into the AI era.
It’s one of the best books to read if you are interested in the ethical and philosophical discussions surrounding AI.
Book 4: “The Fourth Industrial Revolution” by Klaus Schwab
Klaus Martin Schwab is a German economist, mechanical engineer and founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF). He argues that machines are becoming smarter with every advance in technology and supports his arguments with evidence from previous revolutions in thinking and industry.
He explains that the current age – the fourth industrial revolution – is building on the third: with far-reaching consequences.
He states use of AI in technological advancement is crucial and that cybernetics can be used by AIs to change and shape the technological advances coming down the line towards us all.
This book is perfect if you are interested in AI-driven advancements in the fields of digital and technological growth. With this book, the role AI will play in the next phases of technological advancement will be better understood.
Book 5: “Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy” by Cathy O’Neil
Cathy O’Neil’s book emphasises the harm that defective mathematical algorithms cause in judging human behaviour and character. The continual use of maths algorithms promotes harmful results and creates inequality.
An example given in the book is of research that proved bias in voting choices caused by results from different search engines.
Similar examination is given to research that focused Facebook, where, by making newsfeeds appear on users’ timelines, political preferences could be affected.
This book is best suited for readers who want to adventure in the darker sides of AI that wouldn’t regularly be seen in mainstream news outlets.
Book 6: “The Age of Em: Work, Love, and Life when Robots Rule the Earth” by Robin Hanson
An associate professor of economics at George Mason University and a former researcher at the Future of Humanity Institute of Oxford University, Robin Hanson paints an imaginative picture of emulated human brains designed for robots. What if humans copied or “emulated” their brains and emotions and gave them to robots?
He argues that humans who become “Ems” (emulations) will become more dominant in the future workplace because of their higher productivity.
An intriguing book for fans of technology and those who love intelligent predictions of possible futures.
Book 7: “Architects of Intelligence: The truth about AI from the people building it” by Martin Ford
This book was drawn from interviews with AI experts and examines the struggles and possibilities of AI-driven industry.
If you want insights from people actively shaping the world, this book is right for you!
CONCLUSION
These books all have their unique perspectives but all point to one thing – the advantages of AI of today will have significant societal and technological impact. These books will give the reader glimpses into possible futures, with the effects of AI becoming more apparent over time.
For better insight into all aspects of AI, these books are the boosts you need to expand your knowledge. AI is advancing quickly, and these authors are some of the most respected in the field. Learn from the best with these choice reads.
