The implications of synthetic intelligence and machine learning are often left to academics and quasi-philosophical discussions over bar tops leaving the layperson sidelined, wondering what all the fuss is about.  Humans Need Not Apply: A Guide to Wealth and Work in the Age of Artificial Intelligence paints with broad strokes how smart technologies have already integrated themselves into our culture and the work they are doing  in the background of our lives.   The author, Jerry Kaplan, writes with an expertise and amusement; this isn't brain candy, it is brain dessert.

This nonfiction work is well structured, face-paced, and incredibly concise.  Each chapter takes on a different scene and innovation; be prepared to want to know more!  Between economics and the environment, algorithms are making decisions on our behalf, the consequences disastrous and humorous. Do not be surprised if you find yourself reading long sections out loud to your friends, family, and significant other.

Humans Need Not Apply is a map of what the landscape is today, planting seeds for the reader to envision what the terrain will look like tomorrow.

Published by Yale University Press, August 4, 2015.  Review copy received.  
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Using some scrap lumber, I built a stand and cradle to rotate my Nexus 6 on the camera lens' axis; the theory is this will help to produce better photospheres.  Paired with Cardboard, it is an interesting experience being able to go back and immerse yourself in the environment again.


Lamenting I had forgotten my stand, I tried to make do with holding the phone upside down and trying to keep a steady axis over the end of a branch plunged into the sand.  A few decent shots turned out, however the stitching accuracy is definitely better when the cradle is there to hold the phone at steady angles.  

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I got married.  It was a pretty neat day.  We also had a honeymoon which was also neat.  There will be photos floating around for the next long while.  Which is to say I am happy, however life is chaotic.  We are also getting a puppy tomorrow perhaps, maybe?  Pictures of that mess to follow as well.