Human Compatible

Human Compatible cover
Good Books rating 4.17
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Technical
  • ID: 2721
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780525558637
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2020-11-17
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Human Compatible,' Stuart Russell, a distinguished AI researcher, challenges the common fear that superhuman artificial intelligence will inevitably lead to human obsolescence. He argues that by rethinking AI from its foundations, we can create machines that are inherently uncertain about human preferences, making them humble, altruistic, and committed to our objectives. Russell explores the near-term benefits of AI, such as intelligent personal assistants and accelerated scientific research, while also addressing the potential misuse of AI, including lethal autonomous weapons and viral sabotage. The book proposes a new foundation for AI that ensures machines are provably beneficial and deferential to humans, offering a hopeful vision for our future with increasingly intelligent machines. Russell delves into the concept of intelligence in both humans and machines, outlining the breakthroughs needed to reach superhuman AI. He emphasizes the importance of designing AI systems that prioritize human preferences and values, ensuring that these powerful entities never pose a threat to humanity. By advocating for a more ethical and responsible approach to AI development, Russell provides a roadmap for coexisting successfully with intelligent machines, ultimately safeguarding our future.

Reviews
Robin Lovelace's Blog · Robin Lovelace · 2021-02-22
outstanding 5.00

The book is highly recommended for its outstanding and original description of artificial intelligence in the 21st century. The reviewer finds it to be a must-read for anyone interested in the future of AI.

Robin Lovelace's blog post is a glowing endorsement of 'Human Compatible', praising it for its original and outstanding description of artificial intelligence. They highlight the book's ability to provide a clear and compelling vision of the future of AI, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the subject. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the clarity of the arguments presented, making the book both informative and engaging.


Quick quotes

    Outstanding and original description of artificial intelligence (AI) in the 21st Century.

    Highly recommended for anyone interested in the future of AI.

    The book provides a clear and compelling vision of the future of AI.

Forbes · David Teich · 2020-03-03
thoughtful 3.50

The book excels in its early chapters by clearly explaining the capabilities and limitations of current AI systems. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and well-researched, though some of the later chapters could be more focused.

In this Forbes review, the critic commends Stuart Russell for his clear and concise explanations of AI's current state in the early chapters of 'Human Compatible'. They find the book to be a valuable resource for understanding the potential and pitfalls of artificial intelligence. However, they suggest that some of the later discussions could benefit from more clarity and focus. Overall, they view the book as an important contribution to the ongoing conversation about AI and its impact on society.


Quick quotes

    Russell does a great job, in the early chapters, of describing both the power and limitations of today's AI systems.

    The book raises some interesting questions about the future of AI and its implications for humanity.

    Some of the later chapters could be more focused and clearer in their arguments.

The Guardian · Alex Hern · 2019-10-24
insightful 4.00

The book provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and potential dangers of advanced AI, highlighting the need for careful control mechanisms. The author's arguments are well-reasoned and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the future of AI.

This review from The Guardian delves into the critical issues surrounding artificial intelligence as discussed in 'Human Compatible'. The reviewer praises the book for its thorough exploration of the control problem, emphasizing how Stuart Russell's insights are both timely and necessary. They appreciate the author's ability to break down complex concepts into understandable terms, making the book accessible to a wide audience. The reviewer also notes that while the book is cautionary, it is not alarmist, offering a balanced perspective on the potential benefits and risks of AI.


Quick quotes

    Russell’s book is a call to arms, a plea for us to think more carefully about the future we are creating.

    The book is a masterclass in making complex ideas accessible.

    Russell’s arguments are persuasive and his warnings are sobering, but he never resorts to scare tactics.