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The Master Algorithm: How the Quest for the Ultimate Learning Machine Will Remake Our World

Pedro Domingos

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Founder connections

  • Mark CubanChanged his view
    “I hadn’t been convinced that it was prime time for AI. It is.”
    In a November 28, 2018 Q&A with Entrepreneur, Cuban names this book when asked what changed his mind. He says it persuaded him that the time for AI had arrived.
    Source
  • Bill GatesPublisher-reported recommendation
    Basic Books identifies this title as recommended by Bill Gates. The publisher does not include a book-specific explanation from him.
    Source

Summary

Domingos introduces machine learning through five approaches: symbolic reasoning, neural networks, evolution, probability and analogy. He explains what each approach can learn from data and proposes combining their strengths in a universal learner. The book considers the consequences of that research for business, science and society.

  • SourceBasic Books: The Master Algorithm · February 13, 2018; ISBN 9780465094271; Description and Recommended by Bill Gates heading
  • SourcePedro Domingos: original Master Algorithm prologue · One-based PDF pages 4–6; five tribes, their algorithms, proposed synthesis and business uses

Why read it Our view

Useful as an overview of different approaches to learning from data. Domingos explains that each approach has strengths and limits, which gives you questions to ask before choosing a tool or evaluating a claim. Read his proposed universal learner as a research aim, and compare each method with the problem and data you actually have.