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HomeLibraryESI Library, May 2023: the 3+2 books recommended by Carlos González

ESI Library, May 2023: the 3+2 books recommended by Carlos González

Carlos Gonzalez Morcillo

ESI Library, May 2023: the 3+2 books recommended by Carlos González

Carlos González Morcillo, Professor of the School and Academic Director of the UCLM stars in our library section in the month of May. As you already know, the 3+2 section includes the recommendation of 3 books related to technology and the professional field, and 2 books on various other topics. These are the books that Carlos recommends and why:

Tech books (3)


1.Deep Work

"Deep Work," written by computer science professor Carl Newport, is a fascinating book that explores the importance of focusing deeply on cognitively demanding tasks to achieve peak performance and increase productivity. Newport argues that, in a world filled with distractions and pervasive technology, our ability to focus intensely on challenging tasks is increasingly valuable and rare. Throughout the book, the author offers practical strategies and techniques for developing and maintaining deep work habits, as well as examples of successful people who have embraced these principles in their professional lives.

Personally, I've loved “Deep Work” because it effectively addresses one of the biggest challenges we face today: the struggle to stay focused in a world filled with digital distractions. I would recommend Deep Work to any IT professional because, in a field where creative thinking and problem solving are critical, the ability to immerse yourself in deep work is essential for success. All of us who work in a multi-screen, multi-tab, and multi-distraction environment should study and put into practice the techniques in this book. It has helped me a lot and that is why I put it as the first recommendation.

2.Human Compatible

Stuart Russell's "Human Compatible" is a delightful book that addresses artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for the future of humanity. In this book, Russell, a leading expert in the field of AI and author of the leading-edge book on AI in university computer science studies "AI: A Modern Approach," offers a unique and compelling insight into how to ensure that AI serves our interests and avoid unwanted consequences. The author proposes a completely new approach to the design of AI systems, called “assistant AI”, in which machines are designed to understand and adapt to human objectives instead of following predefined objectives.

This book because it not only offers a well-grounded, accessible and visionary perspective on the future of AI. Russell's ability to explain complex concepts clearly and his pragmatic approach to developing AI technologies that are truly compatible with humans make him essential and inspiring reading for anyone interested in the future of artificial intelligence and its impact on our society. The next era is very very very close.

3. Deep Learning for Vision Systems

“Deep Learning for Vision Systems” by Mohamed Elgendy is a comprehensive book that provides a solid introduction to the application of deep learning techniques in computer vision systems. Elgendy, an expert in artificial intelligence and computer vision, presents fundamental concepts, convolutional neural network architectures, and various practical applications in this rapidly growing field. The book guides readers through practical examples and case studies that demonstrate how to implement deep learning algorithms to address real-world problems in computer vision, such as image classification, object detection, and facial recognition.

I particularly liked this book because it effectively combines theory and practice, allowing you to gain a deep understanding of the fundamental concepts and skills needed to apply deep learning to vision systems. Elgendy does an excellent job of explaining complex concepts in a clear and accessible way, making it easy to understand the principles of deep learning for insights even for those who are new to the field. The wealth of practical examples and case studies make this book valuable and applicable reading for anyone interested in developing deep learning-based computer vision solutions. The bad thing about the book? As a manual based on specific technologies, it will be outdated very soon. Work on it now or forget this recommendation.

Non-tech books (2)


4. Pre-suasion

"Pre-suasion: A revolutionary method to influence and persuade" by Robert Cialdini is a revealing book that explores the power of persuasion in the field of communication and decision-making. Cialdini is the world's leading expert in the psychology of persuasion, author of numerous world-renowned books on this subject such as "Influence" or "Yes!", in this book he introduces the concept of "pre-suasion", which refers to the ability to prepare people to be more receptive to a message before presenting it. Through research and case studies, the author demonstrates how pre-suasion can be used effectively to influence the perception, attitudes, and decisions of others.

I love this book because it broadens our understanding of persuasion and presents a new perspective on how to persuade others ethically and effectively. Cialdini's work is fascinating and accessible, full of practical examples, metaphors and stories. It provides research-based strategies that can be applied in both personal and professional life. “Pre-suasion” is essential reading for anyone who speaks in public for a living (beware professors!) or anyone who has to sell an idea in public or private (who doesn't?).

5. Magical moments: How to create life-changing experiences

I could recommend any book by brothers Chip and Dan Heath. They are my favorite authors in the field of productivity. This book in particular is very inspiring. Explore how certain moments can have a deep and lasting impact on our lives. Through captivating stories and case studies, the authors demonstrate how these extraordinary moments are the result of the combination of four key elements: elevation, connection, introspection, and transcendence. In addition, the Heath brothers provide practical tools and strategies for creating and harnessing these meaningful moments in both our personal and professional lives.

What I especially liked about this book is the way the authors break down the elements that make up a powerful moment and show us how we can intentionally apply and design them in our own lives. The engaging narrative and true stories make reading accessible and exciting, while providing valuable lessons on how to create memorable and transformative moments. "The Power of Moments" is an enriching read for anyone looking to improve their relationships, their work, and their life in general. It sure won't let you down. And then continue with the other books by the authors, all just as good. You are welcome.

Other book recommendations from Biblioteca ESI


[+] April 2023, 3+2 books recommended by Ana María Fernández

[+] March 2023, 3+2 books recommended by Luis Cabañero

[+] February 2023, 3+2 books recommended by Elena Toothless

[+] January 2023, 3+2 books recommended by Raúl Barba

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