The Numerati

[Paul Schumann]

This is a well researched and written book about the application of mathematics to almost everything we do.. The author is reporting on trends in the workplace, shopping, politics, journalism, terrorism, health care, and relationships. He does not advocate nor does he attack the trends he’s reporting on.

The book could have been subtitled, “We Are Numbers”.

I found myself deeply disturbed by some of the trends he describes. It’s not only the invasion of privacy that concerns me, but the “wrong headedness” of many of the approaches. I am also concerned about the unintended consequences of success, and the fallout from failures (think financial instruments, credit rating, financial ratings, economic value added (EVA) and economics).

The numerati (a play on illuminati) are intent on the rationalization of humans and human systems in pursuit of increased efficiency, and ignoring purpose, meaning, effectiveness, quality and general messiness of life (chaos) that makes life worth living.

This is a must read book for us all. The topic must be understood, discussed, studied and debated. Let’s not make the same mistake we did with EVA. We’re paying now for our inattention to its consequences.

The introduction to the book is so comprehensive and well written, you can read it here as a summary. But, don’t just read the summary. Buy the book and read it and talk about the trends. Write about them. Hold conversations. Comment on this book review. Visit The Numerati web site, and gain more information.