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A review by sonofisildur
The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
2.0
I had picked up this book with great expectations, came recommended by one of the smartest persons I know.
Honestly, the ideas may not be unique (and impractical to some extent) but sure are compelling. But the author is so obnoxious, I was furious the entire time reading this. I am sure Mr. Taleb has reasons to endorse his ideas, but his treatment of people not agreeing with him is certainly not the mark of intellectual maturity.
As for the content, everyone who works or has ever worked in statistics knows the popular aphorism "All models are wrong but some are useful". So even though no models can predict the Black Swans, they have done wonders for the world at large.
I will recommend it to people who can put up with an insufferable know-it-all but really not worth it.
P.S.: I couldn't finish the book because of the reasons mentioned above, maybe I will revisit in the future. I have been told working in corporate makes you more tolerant towards obnoxious people.
Honestly, the ideas may not be unique (and impractical to some extent) but sure are compelling. But the author is so obnoxious, I was furious the entire time reading this. I am sure Mr. Taleb has reasons to endorse his ideas, but his treatment of people not agreeing with him is certainly not the mark of intellectual maturity.
As for the content, everyone who works or has ever worked in statistics knows the popular aphorism "All models are wrong but some are useful". So even though no models can predict the Black Swans, they have done wonders for the world at large.
I will recommend it to people who can put up with an insufferable know-it-all but really not worth it.
P.S.: I couldn't finish the book because of the reasons mentioned above, maybe I will revisit in the future. I have been told working in corporate makes you more tolerant towards obnoxious people.