Blog on Economics, Artificial Intelligence, and the Future of Work

Recommendations: books, podcasts, videos, and other great stuff

Books

Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Max Tegmark

This is one of the few books on AI that I’ve read that does justice to the core issues of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), while still being accessible to a mainstream audience. Working as a Professor in MIT, Tegmark is one of the leading minds in AGI research. If you’re new to AI and interested in its implications, this is a great place to start. Once you’ve read this, then read Nick Bostrom’s ‘Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies’.

Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio

Dalio is a giant in the investing world. His company, Bridgewater Associates, is among the most successful Hedge Funds in history and they’re known for their unique management practices. Central to Bridgewater is the concept of an ‘Idea Meritocracy’; a practical philosophy where the best ideas rise to the top and are openly debated. To implement this concept, Bridgewater demands a culture of ‘radical truth’ and ‘radical transparency’, where almost all meetings are filmed, individual weaknesses are consistently identified, and truth and honesty are prioritised.

The book is a compilation and explanation of Dalio’s life and work principles. They’re the underpinnings that have guided the successes of both Dalio and Bridgewater. This is both the most practical and confronting self-improvement book I’ve read. While I found that certain principles evoked visceral responses, they were hard to argue with and difficult to dismiss. It’s changed my perspective and my actions. And it’s a book I plan to regularly revisit.

For those interested in Economics, also check out his research and video on ‘How the Economic Machine Works’. As someone trained in Economics, it’s the most accessible and comprehensive description I’ve found.

The Lessons of History by Will Durant & Ariel Durant

This book was recommended by Ray Dalio as essential reading in a podcast. And it didn’t disappoint. Will & Ariel Durant are Pulitzer Prize historians, and they’re best known for their 11 volume series on The Story of Civilization. The husband and wife duo synthesised this series into 120 pages for The Lessons of History. Beautifully written and masterfully organised; it’s the best book I’ve read this year.

Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson

Bryan Stevenson is an Attorney working on Death Row cases in Montgomery, Alabama. Stevenson has dedicated his professional life to overcoming the injustices of the US legal system and racial discrimination in America’s South. This important read is a coming of age of a talented and idealistic lawyer, leading him to the realisation that ‘the opposite of poverty isn’t wealth, but justice’.

Before reading the book, I highly recommend listening to the Ezra Klein Show podcast ‘Bryan Stevenson on why the opposite of poverty isn’t wealth, but justice’ on the 16th of May 2017 (SoundCloud | Apple Podcasts).

Blogs & Research

Unenumerated by Nick Szabo

I’ve been trying to wrap my head around cryptocurrencies of late. Like with anything complex, the more you learn, the more you realise how little you know. Cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, are prime examples. Nick Szabo’s blog has the most comprehensive selection of long-form articles on cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies I’ve come across.

Populism: The Phenomenon by Bridgewater Associates

Populist politics has surged across major nations. Trump, Brexit, Germany’s AfD, and many others have either taken office or are growing in popularity. Bridgewater shows that Populism is at its highest levels since the 1930’s. It also draws parallels to today with the economic conditions of the 30’s. When projecting economic futures under these conditions, the most important thing to monitor is how conflict is handled. The research is a unique and independent thought-piece in a time of rising political populism.

Videos

A Brief History of Humankind by Dr. Yuval Noah Harari

Harari is one of my favourite authors, and I believe Sapiens and Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow are two of the most important books written in the 21st century. I wanted more, so I’ve been watching his online course, A Brief History of Humankind, on YouTube. I’ve found it to be a great way of reinforcing what I’ve already read in his books.

Abstract: The Art of Design on Netflix

This series follows leading designers across disciplines to provide insight into their methods and routines. From architecture to footwear, we’re given a glimpse into the creative genius of the world’s most prominent designers.

The Endurance Test: The 1000 Days by Ivan Olita

Kaihōgyō is a pilgrimage lasting 1,000 days performed by the Tendai Buddhists monks of Mount Hiei, Japan to achieve enlightenment. This beautifully shot 6 minute short film shows the training and endurance behind the 7 year journey, of which only 46 men have completed since 1885.

Podcasts

Lessons from Steve Jobs, Leonardo da Vinci, and Ben Franklin by The Tim Ferriss Show, 13th October 2017 (Stitcher | Apple Podcasts)

In the interview, Walter Isaacson states that ‘The best way to teach human history is to tell the stories of the people that have made it.’ He’s dedicated the best part of his career to this. And he’s now done the same for Leonardo da Vinci. This wide-ranging interview highlights the common threads and key difference behind some of history’s greatest minds.

Some Recent AI Resources