BOOK REVIEW: Hello World by Hannah Fry

AssistKD Book Review

Recently, I picked up the book Hello World by Hannah Fry and started skim reading the first page. I quickly become engrossed, so knew this was a book that was definitely worth buying. Having read it, I fully recommend this book to anyone interested in how machines can be developed to analyse human behaviour and to take on human tasks.?

Examining the Impact of developments in Machine Learning and AI ?

The essence of the book is summarised in its full heading – Hello World: How to be Human in the Age of the Machine. Fry reviews the opportunities and implications for those whose lives will be affected by the developments in machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). She focuses each chapter on a particular area of society and life, analysing the impact of living by algorithm and evaluating whether or not algorithmic decision-making is more productive or safer than human decision-making. She makes the case for data and how that data may be applied by the algorithms to make decisions that are sometimes the difference between life, serious injury or even death.?

Hannah Fry is of the generation introduced to computer via the Sinclair Spectrum. She relates the impact of this computer development on her and her future career. Those of us who remember our first encounter with computing and found ourselves drawn to the logic used and utility offered, will relate to her immediate engagement. She calls this ‘a shared journey of possibilities’ – a sentiment with which I completely agree.?

Bringing Algorithms, Data and Data Profiling to Life

The book begins by explaining the concept of an algorithm and the ways in which algorithms may be used. For those of us working in the technology industry, this explanation may be unnecessary but sometimes it is worth remembering that we take for granted the extensive use made of algorithms. In a few short sentences, with some excellent examples, Fry brings algorithms to life, convincing the reader that this is not the preserve of those who enjoy data and computing but is for everyone who is human. She asks – and attempts to answer – the question of whether ‘an algorithm had a net benefit on society’.??

The chapters in the book examine key topics including data and data profiling, and the application of algorithms in areas such as Justice, Medicine, Cars and Crime. All of the chapters are written in a readable, engaging way with numerous case study examples that bring the narrative alive and highlight the issues and risks that arise from machine decision-making.?

Artificial Intelligence from a People Perspective

Hello World is full of fascinating descriptions of situations where algorithms are used in our lives and where the balance – or ‘power struggle’ – exists between humans and algorithms. Fry explains how, in some critical situations, human intervention has been vital and correct while in others erroneous and devastating. She suggests that humans should see the shades of grey in situations; algorithms can often provide good advice but humans need to be able to evaluate. She points out that while this isn’t always possible, it should be a consideration.??

Fry offers the reader an extensive analysis of AI from the people perspective, making it clear how much we need to think about when we consider a world where machine learning and AI are prominent. She ends the book with a positive call to action – for humans to be fully engaged in ensuring that algorithms offer positive outcomes for society, requiring us to scrutinize, evaluate and challenge machines. Ultimately, we all need to understand the concepts and issues explored in Hello World – this book should be on everyone’s reading list.?