“Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions” by Brian Christian and Thomas L. Griffiths explores how concepts from computer science and algorithms can be applied to improve human decision-making in everyday life. Here are the key takeaways from the book:
- Explore vs. Exploit: The book introduces the “explore vs. exploit” trade-off, a fundamental concept in computer science and decision-making. It’s the dilemma of whether to explore new options or exploit the best-known option. In daily life, this applies to decisions like choosing a restaurant or selecting a job.
- The Optimal Stopping Problem: The authors discuss the optimal stopping problem, which is about determining when to stop searching and start making decisions. It’s relevant in areas like dating and hiring, where you want to select the best option without waiting too long.
- Sorting and Caching: Algorithms for sorting and caching can be applied to organizing information in our lives. The book suggests that organizing your physical and digital spaces efficiently can lead to more productive and less stressful living.
- Scheduling and Prioritization: Concepts like the Shortest Job First (SJF) algorithm and the Priority Scheduling algorithm from computer science can inform how we prioritize and schedule tasks to maximize productivity.
- Bayesian Thinking: Bayesian thinking, based on Bayes’ theorem, is introduced as a way to update beliefs and make better decisions as new information becomes available. It can be applied to areas like decision-making under uncertainty and making predictions.
- Overcoming the Explore-Exploit Trade-Off: The book offers practical strategies for managing the explore vs. exploit trade-off. This includes using the “37% rule” for optimal stopping and recognizing the benefits of randomness in exploration.
- Sorting and Organizing: Apply sorting algorithms, like merge sort and insertion sort, to declutter and organize your physical and digital environments. Use caching strategies to reduce mental and physical clutter.
- Decision Fatigue: Be aware of the impact of decision fatigue and use algorithms to simplify everyday choices, like adopting routines and simplifying wardrobe decisions.
- Collaborative Filtering: Collaborative filtering algorithms from recommendation systems can help you make decisions about what to read, watch, or buy by leveraging the wisdom of the crowd.
- The Power of Defaults: The book explains how defaults and setting defaults can be used to your advantage, influencing behavior and decision-making.
“Algorithms to Live By” provides a thought-provoking perspective on decision-making by applying concepts from computer science. It demonstrates how these algorithms can be used to navigate complex decisions and optimize various aspects of life, from scheduling and prioritization to information organization and relationships.
