#87 Hannah Fry: The Role of Algorithms

This book by Simon Singh tells the story of Fermat's Last Theorem, first conjectured by Pierre de Fermat in 1637. It recounts the centuries-long effort by numerous mathematicians, including famous figures like Euler, Sophie Germain, and Évariste Galois, who attempted but failed to prove the theorem. The book culminates with the story of Andrew Wiles, who finally proved the theorem in 1995 by linking it to the Shimura-Taniyama conjecture. Singh's narrative weaves together historical, mathematical, and personal stories, making the book accessible to a broad audience while highlighting the passion and dedication of mathematicians throughout history.

In 'Hello World,' Hannah Fry explores the pervasive influence of algorithms in various aspects of modern life, including healthcare, justice, transportation, and more. The book discusses the strengths and weaknesses of algorithms, highlighting the need for a balanced approach where humans and algorithms work together. Fry argues for transparency, accountability, and regulation in the development and use of algorithms to ensure they serve human interests rather than controlling them. The book is divided into seven themed chapters and uses real-life examples to illustrate the complexities and potential of algorithmic systems.

In this book, Cathy O'Neil explores the societal impact of big data algorithms, which she terms 'Weapons of Math Destruction' (WMDs). These algorithms are used in various fields such as insurance, advertising, education, and policing, and they often reinforce discrimination, amplify inequality, and harm the poor. O'Neil argues that these models are opaque, unregulated, and difficult to contest, leading to a 'toxic cocktail for democracy'. She calls for greater responsibility from modelers and policymakers to regulate these algorithms and for the public to become more aware of their impact. The book provides numerous examples of how these models can go wrong and emphasizes the need for ethical considerations in the use of big data models.

In *The Mathematics of Love*, Dr. Hannah Fry delves into the patterns that govern love, applying mathematical concepts to questions like finding love, online dating strategies, and the probability of lasting relationships. The book offers a unique blend of humor and scientific rigor to illuminate the complexities of love. Fry also examines broader themes such as beauty and the dynamics of successful relationships.