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The Algorithm of Power
A society run by an operating system...
A world without politicians...
Digital Alternative is a new movement that intends to revolutionise politics... by doing away with politics. To achieve those aims it counts on a formidable The Network, an operating system that will rule over the whole planet with chilling efficiency, despite its humble origins as a buggy strategy game developed by a geeky teenager.
Split between the 21st and the 24th centuries The Algorithm of Power describes a future that is not democratic and where the government has no use for torture, gulags or a secret police - because no one even notices there is a government.
But will it become Utopia or Dystopia?
Welcome to the reign of software!
A world without politicians...
Digital Alternative is a new movement that intends to revolutionise politics... by doing away with politics. To achieve those aims it counts on a formidable The Network, an operating system that will rule over the whole planet with chilling efficiency, despite its humble origins as a buggy strategy game developed by a geeky teenager.
Split between the 21st and the 24th centuries The Algorithm of Power describes a future that is not democratic and where the government has no use for torture, gulags or a secret police - because no one even notices there is a government.
But will it become Utopia or Dystopia?
Welcome to the reign of software!
- GenresScience FictionFiction
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2018
43 people are currently reading
1004 people want to read
About the author
Pedro Barrento
5 books74 followersPedro Barrento was born in Mozambique in 1961. He has published two books: "The Prince and the Singularity - A Circular Tale" and "Marlene and Sofia - A Double Love Story". His third book "The Algorithm of Power" will see the light of day on January 2, 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 4, 2021
“Ya’ gotta serve somebody”
Politics is the rather messy process of reconciling conflicting interests. By definition this process is irrational since it involves establishing a criterion of rationality out of chaotic argument and subtle horse-trading. The more people there are involved in establishing this criterion, the messier the process, and the less satisfactory the outcome for everyone involved. So no one likes politics, particularly democratic politics that deal with the immense and immensely complex interests of entire nations. If the criterion of choice, of value, can be fixed - perhaps in different ways for different parts of the world thus accommodating various preferences about identity - the need for politics can be eliminated entirely.
An algorithm is a logical sequence of intellectual moves which directs action in any given set of circumstances. It is also completely rational in the sense that it never varies in its balancing of interests which are specified within the algorithm itself. It is effectively, therefore, a criterion of choice. An algorithm is therefore anti-political in its function. It solves the political problem elegantly. The rules of the game, as it were - what’s important - are set unambiguously and every situation is treated with absolutely objective equality.
Digital technology is really handy for creating algorithms. In fact that’s just about all digital technology can do - although that’s quite a bit given that algorithms control everything from how your car runs to how your food gets grown, processed and shipped to your home, to, of course, what adverts you get on your webpage. Algorithms are astoundingly useful - literally for the routine. But as far as formulating new interests or determining how spontaneously erupting interests should be reconciled, not so much.
So whoever it is who sets the interests which are inherent in any algorithm is really an awfully powerful person, a dictator actually. Kurt Vonnegut’s first novel, Player Piano, was keyed on this very problem (See: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). What Vonnegut saw in 1952 is what Barrento saw in 2018, namely that in a world of machines, algorithms will become dominant, and he who writes the algorithm is the guy with everything to gain by ensuring his interests are represented. And what Vonnegut and Barrento also saw was that the interests of him who controls the algorithm can be entirely hidden in the complex structure of the algorithm itself. After all few people are competent to penetrate the dense logic of a hard-wired machine, even if they had access to it. And few do.
In The Algorithm of Power, politics has been replaced, paradoxically through idealistic politics (that is to say, the worst sort), by an all-pervasive computer operating system called The Network. The mystery is, naturally, who benefits and what those benefits are. We get a glimpse of an answer to these questions in the recent scandals involving Facebook, Google, and other high-tech players which have inserted their own self-serving algorithms into the internet, communications media, and the increasing number of digital devices upon which we all are dependent. The book is therefore making an obviously current political point: No matter how cumbersome, unsatisfactory, and irrational democratic politics is, the tyranny of technology promises to be a lot worse. Even more urgent perhaps is the book’s recognition that the threat isn’t climactic but agonisingly incremental. The political frog is floating happily in the technological pan as the temperature rises.
Bob Dylan was of course correct. The real existential question is: Who are you going to serve? I’m not sure of this book will help answer that question, however. The plot is somewhat overwrought and the translation from Portuguese is occasionally stilted and artificial. I’d probably look elsewhere for inspiration therefore. Nevertheless worth the investment.
Politics is the rather messy process of reconciling conflicting interests. By definition this process is irrational since it involves establishing a criterion of rationality out of chaotic argument and subtle horse-trading. The more people there are involved in establishing this criterion, the messier the process, and the less satisfactory the outcome for everyone involved. So no one likes politics, particularly democratic politics that deal with the immense and immensely complex interests of entire nations. If the criterion of choice, of value, can be fixed - perhaps in different ways for different parts of the world thus accommodating various preferences about identity - the need for politics can be eliminated entirely.
An algorithm is a logical sequence of intellectual moves which directs action in any given set of circumstances. It is also completely rational in the sense that it never varies in its balancing of interests which are specified within the algorithm itself. It is effectively, therefore, a criterion of choice. An algorithm is therefore anti-political in its function. It solves the political problem elegantly. The rules of the game, as it were - what’s important - are set unambiguously and every situation is treated with absolutely objective equality.
Digital technology is really handy for creating algorithms. In fact that’s just about all digital technology can do - although that’s quite a bit given that algorithms control everything from how your car runs to how your food gets grown, processed and shipped to your home, to, of course, what adverts you get on your webpage. Algorithms are astoundingly useful - literally for the routine. But as far as formulating new interests or determining how spontaneously erupting interests should be reconciled, not so much.
So whoever it is who sets the interests which are inherent in any algorithm is really an awfully powerful person, a dictator actually. Kurt Vonnegut’s first novel, Player Piano, was keyed on this very problem (See: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). What Vonnegut saw in 1952 is what Barrento saw in 2018, namely that in a world of machines, algorithms will become dominant, and he who writes the algorithm is the guy with everything to gain by ensuring his interests are represented. And what Vonnegut and Barrento also saw was that the interests of him who controls the algorithm can be entirely hidden in the complex structure of the algorithm itself. After all few people are competent to penetrate the dense logic of a hard-wired machine, even if they had access to it. And few do.
In The Algorithm of Power, politics has been replaced, paradoxically through idealistic politics (that is to say, the worst sort), by an all-pervasive computer operating system called The Network. The mystery is, naturally, who benefits and what those benefits are. We get a glimpse of an answer to these questions in the recent scandals involving Facebook, Google, and other high-tech players which have inserted their own self-serving algorithms into the internet, communications media, and the increasing number of digital devices upon which we all are dependent. The book is therefore making an obviously current political point: No matter how cumbersome, unsatisfactory, and irrational democratic politics is, the tyranny of technology promises to be a lot worse. Even more urgent perhaps is the book’s recognition that the threat isn’t climactic but agonisingly incremental. The political frog is floating happily in the technological pan as the temperature rises.
Bob Dylan was of course correct. The real existential question is: Who are you going to serve? I’m not sure of this book will help answer that question, however. The plot is somewhat overwrought and the translation from Portuguese is occasionally stilted and artificial. I’d probably look elsewhere for inspiration therefore. Nevertheless worth the investment.
December 10, 2019
All the bits were here to create something extraordinary:
- fantastic plot
- great world building
- interesting characters that tie in beautifully
- loads of detail (sometimes to the detriment of the book)
So why did I only give it 3 stars you say?
The writing style was awful.
The flow was stagnate at the best of times.
It was so bad that part way through reading I looked into the book to see if it was written in another language and translated to try and explain away the flaw in the writing.
Since the author is from Mozambique where the official language is Portuguese and he also released an edition in Portuguese a month after this one I choose to assume that is the reason for the awkwardness of the writing.
The story itself was fantastic and he leaves room for another book or possibly a series. I'm definitely onboard for more in this world. Even with the awkward writing I had trouble escaping the wonders he created.
I would be curious for any of my friends who are fluent in Portuguese to let me know if it flows better in the Portuguese edition.
- fantastic plot
- great world building
- interesting characters that tie in beautifully
- loads of detail (sometimes to the detriment of the book)
So why did I only give it 3 stars you say?
The writing style was awful.
The flow was stagnate at the best of times.
It was so bad that part way through reading I looked into the book to see if it was written in another language and translated to try and explain away the flaw in the writing.
Since the author is from Mozambique where the official language is Portuguese and he also released an edition in Portuguese a month after this one I choose to assume that is the reason for the awkwardness of the writing.
The story itself was fantastic and he leaves room for another book or possibly a series. I'm definitely onboard for more in this world. Even with the awkward writing I had trouble escaping the wonders he created.
I would be curious for any of my friends who are fluent in Portuguese to let me know if it flows better in the Portuguese edition.
December 3, 2018
Important and credible digital dystopia, take heed...
A fascinating and ambitious speculative novel, The Algorithm of Power by Pedro Barrento might just belong in the great pantheon of literary dystopias.
Updated for the modern digital age, and all the more haunting because of it, this novel is about a "creepy digital dictatorship" as some have written about, detailing precisely how the world could word in a future when people trust algorithms more than governments--especially, more than politicians (although these days one is almost tempted to prefer this future rather than the current status quo). And it is about how bad that could get as this concept reaches its logical conclusion.
A sprawling story, it begins with some average people living in this world when one girl wants to move to another region and becomes the point-of-view character for the reader. The new region is strange to her, and the reader is left wondering how exactly borders and laws and cultures work in this world.
Then, as we keep jumping around as the plot develops, and most fascinating of all is when going back to how it all started and learn about the movement to replace the state with the so-called Network. One is rather sympathetic at first. Of course, it gets bad. And eerily, it all seems very plausible...
I happened to read this as an ebook, but unfortunately the flaw in the novel is that it may be too ambitious for it's own sake. A book of this length can take a long time to finish on a screen. And, how ironic right? So I'd have to recommend splurging for the paperback edition like a proper book.
I am now left with lots to ponder over. As a good book should leave you.
A fascinating and ambitious speculative novel, The Algorithm of Power by Pedro Barrento might just belong in the great pantheon of literary dystopias.
Updated for the modern digital age, and all the more haunting because of it, this novel is about a "creepy digital dictatorship" as some have written about, detailing precisely how the world could word in a future when people trust algorithms more than governments--especially, more than politicians (although these days one is almost tempted to prefer this future rather than the current status quo). And it is about how bad that could get as this concept reaches its logical conclusion.
A sprawling story, it begins with some average people living in this world when one girl wants to move to another region and becomes the point-of-view character for the reader. The new region is strange to her, and the reader is left wondering how exactly borders and laws and cultures work in this world.
Then, as we keep jumping around as the plot develops, and most fascinating of all is when going back to how it all started and learn about the movement to replace the state with the so-called Network. One is rather sympathetic at first. Of course, it gets bad. And eerily, it all seems very plausible...
I happened to read this as an ebook, but unfortunately the flaw in the novel is that it may be too ambitious for it's own sake. A book of this length can take a long time to finish on a screen. And, how ironic right? So I'd have to recommend splurging for the paperback edition like a proper book.
I am now left with lots to ponder over. As a good book should leave you.
January 12, 2018
Parti para O Algoritmo do Poder sem fasquias elevadas. Auto-edição significa que tirando os amigos do autor não houve olhar crítico editorial sobre o texto, e as produções literárias de autores que estão fora dos núcleos mais activos da FC em Portugal raramente surpreendem pela sua qualidade ou inventividade. Isto não é um elogio a grupos, antes um apontar que criadores que se cruzam e discutem o seu trabalho conseguem levá-lo mais longe do que aqueles que estão isolados nos espaços. Seria este mais um daqueles livros bem intencionados, mal escritos e com ideias banais que fazem as delícias das editoras vanity predadoras?
No seu cerne, a ficção científica e especulativa não trata de prever ou imaginar futuros. A lente da FC não é um oráculo de Delfos, antes, é um espelho das pulsões sociais e culturais da sua contemporaneidade, alimentada pelo fascínio e possibilidades da ciência e tecnologia. Os futuros da FC são em essência uma redução ao absurdo dos momentos presentes, um tirar de travões aos contextos do tempo cultural e levá-los às suas conclusões lógicas. Este não é, claro, um raciocínio que caracterize toda a Ficção Científica, e ainda bem, senão não teríamos divertidas aventuras no espaço, cheias de raios laser, explosões e estrelas da morte. Divertidas, mas inconsequentes, que não nos surpreende e deixa a reflectir como faz o lado mais maduro do género. Podemos apreciá-lo pelas naves espaciais, mas o que verdadeiramente apaixona é o raciocínio sobre possibilidades que nos desperta.
Este tipo de especulação está no cerne de O Algoritmo do Poder. Apesar de estruturado como romance-périplo, um daqueles livros que pega nas mãos do leitor e o leva através do mundo ficcional (utilizando a definição de Aldiss em A Billion Year Spree), é em essência um longo infodump sobre a forma como Pedro Barrento vê algumas questões estruturais que já hoje caracterizam a sociedade global. Infodump, mas daqueles bem feitos, em que os dados que informam o leitor sobre as premissas do mundo ficcional são elementos da narrativa e não aqueles longos discursos onde um personagem perora longamente para nos ajudar a perceber as premissas do universo.
Se não estivermos particularmente sintonizados com questões como a influência dos algoritmos nos comportamentos sociais, bolhas de informação, inteligência artificial e automação, ecologia e alterações climáticas, pode ser fácil desconsiderar O Algoritmo do Poder como uma banal distopia. Um mundo futuro fragmentado, regredido, onde a globalização foi substituída por uma hiperlocalização, com a heterogeneidade social eliminada pela existência de regiões habitadas exclusivamente por quem partilha de ideais ou religiões específicas. Imaginem que os países não são ricos cadinhos culturais onde diferentes grupos se cruzam e interagem, mas regiões de monocultura social. Que a memória colectiva é limitada a uma espécie de constante agora, sem memória do passado nem vontade de projetar futuros. Que os níveis de vida e de tecnologia tinham de facto regredido, mas ninguém se importa com isso porque não imagina sequer que haja alternativas ao mundo onde sempre viveram. Pessoas que não imaginam sequer que o mundo seja mais vasto do que a pequena região que habitem, onde viajar é passar entre localidades próximas. Um estado de coisas facilitado por um governo global automatizado, baseado em algoritmos, que redistribui a riqueza por todos e assegura uma normalidade global. Um mundo que é de facto uma gaiola, não dourada, até bastante enferrujada, mas quem nela está encerrado julga-se no melhor dos mundos porque a memória colectiva é controlada pelos omnipresentes algoritmos.
Agora, olhem à vossa volta. A discussão pública está cada vez mais dependente de redes sociais onde nos agrupamos em bolhas de informação, verdadeiros enclaves de ideias que geram em cada um de nós a falsa sensação de um consenso global. Fluxos de informação controlados por algoritmos cada vez mais avançados, e que sem que nos apercebamos transvasam para as nossas vidas. Quantas das nossas decisões não foram influenciadas por algoritmos invisíveis? Não são entidades espirituais, são ferramentas industriais usadas em nome da eficácia dos serviços e da interconexão global de que todos dependemos. E se a nossa memória comum não foi riscadas e esquecida, até que ponto o estado de constante atemporalidade gerado pelos media e internet nos leva a esquecer a rica textura do fluxo histórico?
Certamente o maior desafio do nosso momento contemporâneo são as alterações climatéricas. É um problema tremendo, que coloca em risco o planeta e a nossa viabilidade como espécie a longo prazo, e o nosso estilo de vida a curto prazo. Debate-se muito, faz-se pouco, aposta-se na tecnologia que ainda está por inventar para nos salvar dos desastres ambientais. Mas, e se a resposta for regredir? Isolar as comunidades, esquecer a globalização, produzir localmente, encontrar formas de reduzir drasticamente a população? Este é outro dos alicerces de O Algoritmo do Poder, que Barrento explorou muito bem numa variante da metáfora que Elon Musk chama o problema da fábrica de clipes de papel. Imaginem uma inteligência artificial criada para optimizar a produção de clipes, que percebe que a conclusão lógica para uma produção de eficiência perfeita passa pelo extermínio da humanidade. Não é uma inteligência artificial criada para aniquilar, antes, a aniquilação é uma consequência dos seus processos lógicos. Sem querer entrar em muitos spoilers, Barrento usa esta lógica para algoritmos sociais que combatem a pressão demográfica através da eliminação selectiva daqueles que se tornam um fardo social, idosos ou doentes prolongados.
Estas minhas observações fazem parecer que O Algoritmo do Poder é um longo tratado filosófico. Pelo contrário, é uma história, e uma boa história, cuja estrutura me fez recordar o romance O Último Europeu de Miguel Real, com o qual também tem similaridades temáticas, especificamente ao nível da desestruturação do mundo como o conhecemos e erradicação da memória histórica coletiva. Uma história que se passa em dois tempos, mas essencialmente numa só cidade.
Estamos em Lisboa de um presente e futuro próximo, berço implausível de um movimento global que visa revolucionar a política, substituindo a democracia parlamentar por um governo automatizado, controlado por algoritmos e indivíduos interconectados em rede. Um movimento utópico, alicerçado na computação, que será cooptado por um homem arguto à beira da morte, e que irá acabar por dominar o globo, derrotando governos e a oligarquia um percentista com a inexorabilidade das redes digitais.
Estamos também na Lisboa de um futuro mais distante, uma cidade que já não tem o nome de sempre numa língua original que foi esquecida na homogeneização linguística trazida pela rede, irreconhecível numa região que sucedeu a um fragmento de Portugal (e se me permitirem o comentário, belíssima piada a que Pedro Barrento faz com a região a sul do rio Tejo). Uma cidade onde reside a única força que escapa à rede omnipresente, o legado também em si esquecido de uma das programadoras originais dos algoritmos que sustentam este pouco admirável novo mundo, que cedo se apercebeu do seu potencial distópico. Uma força que, graças ao ponto fraco desta sociedade futura, poderá ser a sucessora no domínio global, embora num recanto do globo os herdeiros da velha sociedade se preparem para o momento em que a rede global falhar.
É esse o ponto fraco de uma sociedade automatizada, que não evolui nem se renova. Com uma população dócil, dividida em grupos de interesse e com as sua necessidades cuidadas por um sistema automático que não tem ninguém que zele por ele. Onde o progresso científico parou e as conquistas da tecnologia são uma memória esquecida. Um colapso que se começa a gizar no final do romance, mas que Barrento não nos revela, recusando-se a continuar o livro a partir do ponto em o leitor monta por completo o puzzle do seu mundo ficcional.
O resto é história, são os dramas e aventuras de um grupo de personagens eclécticos cujas ações têm consequências à escala global. Confesso que não empatizei muito com os personagens, fiquei mais seduzido pelo espaço de ideias que sustenta o livro. Barrento tem uma técnica narrativa muito directa, encadeando bem a acção com a necessidade de explicar ao leitor o que a sustenta. A leitura é rápida, divertida, apesar de uma certa sensação de estranheza pela colisão da familiaridade dos locais da história com o ambiente de ficção científica do livro.
A olhar para um ecrã divido em várias janelas enquanto termino esta recensão, com um olho no editor de texto e outro no navegador onde vão passando as novidades que os algoritmos das redes sociais escolhem para o meu olhar, a partir do perfil da minha bolha de informação, percebo onde Pedro Barrento quis chegar com a sua distopia. Não podemos confiar cegamente em quem desenha os algoritmos. Nem correr o risco de perder a memória colectiva. Não leiam O Algoritmo do Poder como mais uma aventura distópica. Este livro é muito mais do que isso.
No seu cerne, a ficção científica e especulativa não trata de prever ou imaginar futuros. A lente da FC não é um oráculo de Delfos, antes, é um espelho das pulsões sociais e culturais da sua contemporaneidade, alimentada pelo fascínio e possibilidades da ciência e tecnologia. Os futuros da FC são em essência uma redução ao absurdo dos momentos presentes, um tirar de travões aos contextos do tempo cultural e levá-los às suas conclusões lógicas. Este não é, claro, um raciocínio que caracterize toda a Ficção Científica, e ainda bem, senão não teríamos divertidas aventuras no espaço, cheias de raios laser, explosões e estrelas da morte. Divertidas, mas inconsequentes, que não nos surpreende e deixa a reflectir como faz o lado mais maduro do género. Podemos apreciá-lo pelas naves espaciais, mas o que verdadeiramente apaixona é o raciocínio sobre possibilidades que nos desperta.
Este tipo de especulação está no cerne de O Algoritmo do Poder. Apesar de estruturado como romance-périplo, um daqueles livros que pega nas mãos do leitor e o leva através do mundo ficcional (utilizando a definição de Aldiss em A Billion Year Spree), é em essência um longo infodump sobre a forma como Pedro Barrento vê algumas questões estruturais que já hoje caracterizam a sociedade global. Infodump, mas daqueles bem feitos, em que os dados que informam o leitor sobre as premissas do mundo ficcional são elementos da narrativa e não aqueles longos discursos onde um personagem perora longamente para nos ajudar a perceber as premissas do universo.
Se não estivermos particularmente sintonizados com questões como a influência dos algoritmos nos comportamentos sociais, bolhas de informação, inteligência artificial e automação, ecologia e alterações climáticas, pode ser fácil desconsiderar O Algoritmo do Poder como uma banal distopia. Um mundo futuro fragmentado, regredido, onde a globalização foi substituída por uma hiperlocalização, com a heterogeneidade social eliminada pela existência de regiões habitadas exclusivamente por quem partilha de ideais ou religiões específicas. Imaginem que os países não são ricos cadinhos culturais onde diferentes grupos se cruzam e interagem, mas regiões de monocultura social. Que a memória colectiva é limitada a uma espécie de constante agora, sem memória do passado nem vontade de projetar futuros. Que os níveis de vida e de tecnologia tinham de facto regredido, mas ninguém se importa com isso porque não imagina sequer que haja alternativas ao mundo onde sempre viveram. Pessoas que não imaginam sequer que o mundo seja mais vasto do que a pequena região que habitem, onde viajar é passar entre localidades próximas. Um estado de coisas facilitado por um governo global automatizado, baseado em algoritmos, que redistribui a riqueza por todos e assegura uma normalidade global. Um mundo que é de facto uma gaiola, não dourada, até bastante enferrujada, mas quem nela está encerrado julga-se no melhor dos mundos porque a memória colectiva é controlada pelos omnipresentes algoritmos.
Agora, olhem à vossa volta. A discussão pública está cada vez mais dependente de redes sociais onde nos agrupamos em bolhas de informação, verdadeiros enclaves de ideias que geram em cada um de nós a falsa sensação de um consenso global. Fluxos de informação controlados por algoritmos cada vez mais avançados, e que sem que nos apercebamos transvasam para as nossas vidas. Quantas das nossas decisões não foram influenciadas por algoritmos invisíveis? Não são entidades espirituais, são ferramentas industriais usadas em nome da eficácia dos serviços e da interconexão global de que todos dependemos. E se a nossa memória comum não foi riscadas e esquecida, até que ponto o estado de constante atemporalidade gerado pelos media e internet nos leva a esquecer a rica textura do fluxo histórico?
Certamente o maior desafio do nosso momento contemporâneo são as alterações climatéricas. É um problema tremendo, que coloca em risco o planeta e a nossa viabilidade como espécie a longo prazo, e o nosso estilo de vida a curto prazo. Debate-se muito, faz-se pouco, aposta-se na tecnologia que ainda está por inventar para nos salvar dos desastres ambientais. Mas, e se a resposta for regredir? Isolar as comunidades, esquecer a globalização, produzir localmente, encontrar formas de reduzir drasticamente a população? Este é outro dos alicerces de O Algoritmo do Poder, que Barrento explorou muito bem numa variante da metáfora que Elon Musk chama o problema da fábrica de clipes de papel. Imaginem uma inteligência artificial criada para optimizar a produção de clipes, que percebe que a conclusão lógica para uma produção de eficiência perfeita passa pelo extermínio da humanidade. Não é uma inteligência artificial criada para aniquilar, antes, a aniquilação é uma consequência dos seus processos lógicos. Sem querer entrar em muitos spoilers, Barrento usa esta lógica para algoritmos sociais que combatem a pressão demográfica através da eliminação selectiva daqueles que se tornam um fardo social, idosos ou doentes prolongados.
Estas minhas observações fazem parecer que O Algoritmo do Poder é um longo tratado filosófico. Pelo contrário, é uma história, e uma boa história, cuja estrutura me fez recordar o romance O Último Europeu de Miguel Real, com o qual também tem similaridades temáticas, especificamente ao nível da desestruturação do mundo como o conhecemos e erradicação da memória histórica coletiva. Uma história que se passa em dois tempos, mas essencialmente numa só cidade.
Estamos em Lisboa de um presente e futuro próximo, berço implausível de um movimento global que visa revolucionar a política, substituindo a democracia parlamentar por um governo automatizado, controlado por algoritmos e indivíduos interconectados em rede. Um movimento utópico, alicerçado na computação, que será cooptado por um homem arguto à beira da morte, e que irá acabar por dominar o globo, derrotando governos e a oligarquia um percentista com a inexorabilidade das redes digitais.
Estamos também na Lisboa de um futuro mais distante, uma cidade que já não tem o nome de sempre numa língua original que foi esquecida na homogeneização linguística trazida pela rede, irreconhecível numa região que sucedeu a um fragmento de Portugal (e se me permitirem o comentário, belíssima piada a que Pedro Barrento faz com a região a sul do rio Tejo). Uma cidade onde reside a única força que escapa à rede omnipresente, o legado também em si esquecido de uma das programadoras originais dos algoritmos que sustentam este pouco admirável novo mundo, que cedo se apercebeu do seu potencial distópico. Uma força que, graças ao ponto fraco desta sociedade futura, poderá ser a sucessora no domínio global, embora num recanto do globo os herdeiros da velha sociedade se preparem para o momento em que a rede global falhar.
É esse o ponto fraco de uma sociedade automatizada, que não evolui nem se renova. Com uma população dócil, dividida em grupos de interesse e com as sua necessidades cuidadas por um sistema automático que não tem ninguém que zele por ele. Onde o progresso científico parou e as conquistas da tecnologia são uma memória esquecida. Um colapso que se começa a gizar no final do romance, mas que Barrento não nos revela, recusando-se a continuar o livro a partir do ponto em o leitor monta por completo o puzzle do seu mundo ficcional.
O resto é história, são os dramas e aventuras de um grupo de personagens eclécticos cujas ações têm consequências à escala global. Confesso que não empatizei muito com os personagens, fiquei mais seduzido pelo espaço de ideias que sustenta o livro. Barrento tem uma técnica narrativa muito directa, encadeando bem a acção com a necessidade de explicar ao leitor o que a sustenta. A leitura é rápida, divertida, apesar de uma certa sensação de estranheza pela colisão da familiaridade dos locais da história com o ambiente de ficção científica do livro.
A olhar para um ecrã divido em várias janelas enquanto termino esta recensão, com um olho no editor de texto e outro no navegador onde vão passando as novidades que os algoritmos das redes sociais escolhem para o meu olhar, a partir do perfil da minha bolha de informação, percebo onde Pedro Barrento quis chegar com a sua distopia. Não podemos confiar cegamente em quem desenha os algoritmos. Nem correr o risco de perder a memória colectiva. Não leiam O Algoritmo do Poder como mais uma aventura distópica. Este livro é muito mais do que isso.
January 9, 2018
This is one of those books I found hard to stop reading. It's an amazing tale between centuries, built in a way that you always want to know more, and the characters and places are depicted wonderfully. Everything feels so believable that this book makes us think how crazy it would be if we were ruled by software. Recommended!
May 28, 2018
I really wanted to like this book – the premise was clever, and Barrento creates a convincing fantasy world. But I struggled with the writing, which I found incessantly "tell-y". And it was so long (the equivalent of 700+ pages), which was exhausting! (Or maybe I'm just a lightweight!) I did finish it – I wanted to know what happened – and I'm glad I persisted; but it was hard work for me.
August 30, 2018
Multiple viewpoints are used to tell this story of people in a future dystopian world, and the author cleverly draws readers into that world before revealing how it came to be. The separate sections of the novel could stand alone as separate novels, but it’s intriguing to read the whole story at once, to see how good intentions can turn radically wrong, and how random coincidence can determine the fate of the world.
The premise of a world where government is replaced by computers is intriguing and nicely presented. There’s a darkness, of course, behind what ought to be benign, and there are plenty of thought-provoking parallels with our own world. Perhaps obeying rules before caring about people really might be a problem.
The second part of this book presents a scarily believable future history, marred only by a few unlikely coincidences. But then, it’s coincidence that drives the tale. Clever political manipulations, powerful ideas overtaken by powerful people… the net effect, again, is to draw the reader along while inviting reflection on the present day.
And then there’s the search for something more, with the reader already enticed and prepared to guess where this might go. With interesting characters, neat science fiction, complex commentary on belief and faith, and clever social commentary, the Algorithm of Power takes computers and people to the next level and invites the reader to follow.
Disclosure: I was given a copy and I offer my honest review.
The premise of a world where government is replaced by computers is intriguing and nicely presented. There’s a darkness, of course, behind what ought to be benign, and there are plenty of thought-provoking parallels with our own world. Perhaps obeying rules before caring about people really might be a problem.
The second part of this book presents a scarily believable future history, marred only by a few unlikely coincidences. But then, it’s coincidence that drives the tale. Clever political manipulations, powerful ideas overtaken by powerful people… the net effect, again, is to draw the reader along while inviting reflection on the present day.
And then there’s the search for something more, with the reader already enticed and prepared to guess where this might go. With interesting characters, neat science fiction, complex commentary on belief and faith, and clever social commentary, the Algorithm of Power takes computers and people to the next level and invites the reader to follow.
Disclosure: I was given a copy and I offer my honest review.
November 16, 2017
This is a brilliant sci-fi novel, which opens with a disturbing portrayal of a dystopian future. In 2307 the Earth is entirely run by an operating system, the Network, and there are no governments, no elections, no banks, no cash. The operating system runs everything, and people communicate with it via their clothes – they are in touch at all times. Earth is split into regions and there’s no possibility of free movement from one region to another.
How did Earth get into this state? That’s the question I found myself asking through the first section of the book, and I was delighted to find the author then takes us back, to 2031 and then to 2008 to show how it all came about, from the geeky teenager developing a computer game via an idealistic young man through to a deranged, ambitious father who’ll stop at nothing to make his son rule the world. And then there’s the underground resistance movement, begun by one of the programmers working on the operating system...
I found this book to be a real page-turner, and although it’s long it left me wanting more. Good job the author has left the ending open and ready for a sequel, which I’m very much looking forward to reading.
I received an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
How did Earth get into this state? That’s the question I found myself asking through the first section of the book, and I was delighted to find the author then takes us back, to 2031 and then to 2008 to show how it all came about, from the geeky teenager developing a computer game via an idealistic young man through to a deranged, ambitious father who’ll stop at nothing to make his son rule the world. And then there’s the underground resistance movement, begun by one of the programmers working on the operating system...
I found this book to be a real page-turner, and although it’s long it left me wanting more. Good job the author has left the ending open and ready for a sequel, which I’m very much looking forward to reading.
I received an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 11, 2018
I read previous Pedro's books and each was an enjoyable read and a unique experience.
And now Pedro did it again! His newest book "The Algorithm of Power" is even more interesting, with beautifully and intelligently crafted plot, thoughtful sequencing, perfect, smooth writing style and overall the story - unique and highly actual! This is the most creative way how to combine sci-fi, politics, and esoterics into one enjoyable and compact book. I don't want to disclose any spoilers, I just want to encourage everyone to read it! It is a book which stands out from current production.
And now Pedro did it again! His newest book "The Algorithm of Power" is even more interesting, with beautifully and intelligently crafted plot, thoughtful sequencing, perfect, smooth writing style and overall the story - unique and highly actual! This is the most creative way how to combine sci-fi, politics, and esoterics into one enjoyable and compact book. I don't want to disclose any spoilers, I just want to encourage everyone to read it! It is a book which stands out from current production.
August 18, 2018
I liked the book. In particular, I liked the structure of the story - told through multiple viewpoints all leading to a single, cohesive tale. I found the storytelling engaging - up until the end. Sadly, the end falls flat enough to lose a star. A real shame, too. It would not have been that difficult to flesh things out, to show give a sense of direction where things would go. It almost has the feeling of being the first in a series. If it is, and if a second book makes the story end well, I'll update this review and my rating.
January 4, 2020
What a surprise!
An abstract view of how technology and ideology can subvert the progression of humanity. It's frightening in its reality. This book originally in Portuguese is translated well into English and nothing is lost in translation. Even though as English myself, never having been to the regions in this book ,I still related and understood. It is a very intelligent view of the collapse of capitalism and democracy. It shows is a new world so well imagined I can see it clearly. I could see it happening for real. I hope you write a sequel. I am a fan!
An abstract view of how technology and ideology can subvert the progression of humanity. It's frightening in its reality. This book originally in Portuguese is translated well into English and nothing is lost in translation. Even though as English myself, never having been to the regions in this book ,I still related and understood. It is a very intelligent view of the collapse of capitalism and democracy. It shows is a new world so well imagined I can see it clearly. I could see it happening for real. I hope you write a sequel. I am a fan!
December 17, 2018
This is a well woven tale spanning centuries and the lives of several main characters. I am glad that I waited to fully digest everything before writing my review. This is a book that needs to be digested and reread to fully appreciate everything. It is amazing how the interpretation and misinterpretation of actions shape the world. I was thrilled to read this as it plays out the sort of things I would expect in a good strategy game. I hope there is a sequel. I want more.
The book is considered by the author to be a dystopian novel. However it is a dystopia different than the sort that we normally see most represented in current literature. The world is not “dark” in the gritty ways that cyber or steampunk tend to show things. The world is run by a computer, and the society bills itself as fair and transparent. At first glance it certainly seems to be. However as one digs beneath the surface as we follow the characters we discover that this world is not so innocent. There is also the very real issue of who, if anyone, is actually maintaining this software. I will not spoil is by revealing who. I could see this being used successfully in a 12 grade english class for assigned reading with teachers that are unafraid to discuss some more difficult topics with their students. It deserves a place there on the shelf in the company of Bradbury’s Farenheit 451, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Orwell’s 1984.
The book is considered by the author to be a dystopian novel. However it is a dystopia different than the sort that we normally see most represented in current literature. The world is not “dark” in the gritty ways that cyber or steampunk tend to show things. The world is run by a computer, and the society bills itself as fair and transparent. At first glance it certainly seems to be. However as one digs beneath the surface as we follow the characters we discover that this world is not so innocent. There is also the very real issue of who, if anyone, is actually maintaining this software. I will not spoil is by revealing who. I could see this being used successfully in a 12 grade english class for assigned reading with teachers that are unafraid to discuss some more difficult topics with their students. It deserves a place there on the shelf in the company of Bradbury’s Farenheit 451, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Orwell’s 1984.
November 12, 2018
“The enemy is us.” The American comic strip “Pogo” coined that phrase in condemning Americans who, given a mere bowl of rice and a TV set, would mindlessly vote away their own democratic freedoms (see Nixon, Trump. . . .).
In a sophisticated, dystopian-future tale, Pedro Barrento takes that concept to the next level with “The Algorithm of Power.” The story’s core is traced to our mass preference for easy answers -- as part of the easy life we all pursue (recall “the pursuit of happiness” phrase from the American Declaration of Independence). That preference is carefully exploited by mid-21st century “Digital Alternative” party principals who convince the planet to replace classic governments with a planet-wide “operating system.” Think “Skynet” but with flying “enforcement drones” instead of terminator robots and -- more cleverly -- civilians conscripted by “The Network” for brief stints policing “system-based rules” in regions segregated by similar interests.
But unlike “Skynet,” the Operating System in this tale is voluntarily embraced. Barrento has imagined that a sufficiently large mass of humanity (younger generation “digit-savants”) gets fed up with interchangeable retail politicians and the inefficiency that they breed (pay to play, rent-seeking interests), so they replace it with a “systemically fair” network designed to govern so that humans may turn their back on politicians and live more productive lives. Let a carefully programmed computer, which can’t be bribed or distracted by money, sex, ego or fame, do the job. “Algorithm” poignantly exploits that fantasy-based reaction in this, the age of Trump.
A student of history, law, and political science, I’ve always eschewed “instant magic” sci-fi, where someone gets bitten by a radioactive spider or puts on a magic ring -- stuff that's just not believable. But a sci-fi tale that packs a nice veneer of plausibility holds my interest and entertains me. And if it engenders some deep thought about political philosophy, then it especially rocks.
“Algorithm” is one such book. Barrento has layered individual but interrelated plot lines in a “gee, this could really happen!” tale that beckons scrutinization of The Mass Mindset, mass movements, and how easy it is for even bumbling, evil fools (Trump) to take over. Granted, the story takes a stretch here and there (the reader is impliedly asked to fill in technological evolution of the social background with his own imagination), but overall, it works.
To that end, there’s a very cool “evil genius” flavor to the story (it helps that Barrento’s Facebook profile photo reminds me of a Bond villain), which is going to attract political theorists and thinkers, but not fans of the standard adrenalin-driven, “Secret Code Chaser” best sellers. It is in that sense that this book probably won’t become a best seller anytime soon, but only because it starts pretty slow and demands some “work” -- some thought.
And in the American market, at least, that’s asking a lot. Compare the amount of focus one must apply when watching “The West Wing” versus the faster action, but lower brow, “Scandal.”
“Algorithm” is closer to “The West Wing.” It’s for readers who are more enamored of history, law, and mass movements -- instead of awesome robots, hot sex and page-turning “action!”
Put another way, Barrento’s book is one for the ages, not for “mass-crass” consumption.
So if you’re of that mindset, you’ll also give this well-written book 5 stars.
A warning: The story ends abruptly. It’s evidently a “to be continued” series, not a standalone novel. So readers who insist on an emotionally satisfying ending may feel disappointed.
In a sophisticated, dystopian-future tale, Pedro Barrento takes that concept to the next level with “The Algorithm of Power.” The story’s core is traced to our mass preference for easy answers -- as part of the easy life we all pursue (recall “the pursuit of happiness” phrase from the American Declaration of Independence). That preference is carefully exploited by mid-21st century “Digital Alternative” party principals who convince the planet to replace classic governments with a planet-wide “operating system.” Think “Skynet” but with flying “enforcement drones” instead of terminator robots and -- more cleverly -- civilians conscripted by “The Network” for brief stints policing “system-based rules” in regions segregated by similar interests.
But unlike “Skynet,” the Operating System in this tale is voluntarily embraced. Barrento has imagined that a sufficiently large mass of humanity (younger generation “digit-savants”) gets fed up with interchangeable retail politicians and the inefficiency that they breed (pay to play, rent-seeking interests), so they replace it with a “systemically fair” network designed to govern so that humans may turn their back on politicians and live more productive lives. Let a carefully programmed computer, which can’t be bribed or distracted by money, sex, ego or fame, do the job. “Algorithm” poignantly exploits that fantasy-based reaction in this, the age of Trump.
A student of history, law, and political science, I’ve always eschewed “instant magic” sci-fi, where someone gets bitten by a radioactive spider or puts on a magic ring -- stuff that's just not believable. But a sci-fi tale that packs a nice veneer of plausibility holds my interest and entertains me. And if it engenders some deep thought about political philosophy, then it especially rocks.
“Algorithm” is one such book. Barrento has layered individual but interrelated plot lines in a “gee, this could really happen!” tale that beckons scrutinization of The Mass Mindset, mass movements, and how easy it is for even bumbling, evil fools (Trump) to take over. Granted, the story takes a stretch here and there (the reader is impliedly asked to fill in technological evolution of the social background with his own imagination), but overall, it works.
To that end, there’s a very cool “evil genius” flavor to the story (it helps that Barrento’s Facebook profile photo reminds me of a Bond villain), which is going to attract political theorists and thinkers, but not fans of the standard adrenalin-driven, “Secret Code Chaser” best sellers. It is in that sense that this book probably won’t become a best seller anytime soon, but only because it starts pretty slow and demands some “work” -- some thought.
And in the American market, at least, that’s asking a lot. Compare the amount of focus one must apply when watching “The West Wing” versus the faster action, but lower brow, “Scandal.”
“Algorithm” is closer to “The West Wing.” It’s for readers who are more enamored of history, law, and mass movements -- instead of awesome robots, hot sex and page-turning “action!”
Put another way, Barrento’s book is one for the ages, not for “mass-crass” consumption.
So if you’re of that mindset, you’ll also give this well-written book 5 stars.
A warning: The story ends abruptly. It’s evidently a “to be continued” series, not a standalone novel. So readers who insist on an emotionally satisfying ending may feel disappointed.
December 19, 2017
What a wonderful book! I started reading this book with great curiosity and enthusiasm, but it turned out be be even more than I could anticipate. I´m quite amazed by this story and have now become even more interested in the work of Pedro Barrento.
I confess that utopian/dystopian settings always have a great effect on me, and that I just love thinking about, discussing, debating and imagining these kind of things. George Orwell´s 1984 truly blew me away when I was quite young. However, nowadays, I´m not often surprised or feel engaged in utopian/dystopian books or movies, as they always seem to me "stories that have already been told". But I knew this "Algorytm of Power" had got to me, when I realized I spent all my lunch break talking with great enthusiasm about it...
For many chapters I was glued to the book, and just until the final chapters I was planning of giving a five star rating on Goodreads, which is not something that happens to me very often. It was only by the final chapters that the story changed for me. This first three parts I considered amazing, and the last really good. If only the final chapters were different... but well, I have nothing to complain. This was truly one of the best books I read this year. And these are some of the reasons why.
The book is very well written, in a simple but efective style. Straight to the point, without overdoing anything. The story has a sound structure, that goes back and forward in time, with no risk of the reader getting "lost". The story is very original, imaginative and creative, with no need to make up stuff, like often happens in science fiction books, where the contraptions, machines, structures are so "out there" is hard for the reader to get in the story and fully understand it. One of the most interesting things to this story is that is really doesn´t have much new or made up features, but the way the author combines existing things is truly original.
The locations in the story, for us portuguese people, are familiar day to day places everybody or many people know, and yet the author manages to make it totally believable that so much happens or has happened "next door". It´s really an immersive story, and I know this is really strange to say, as it´s a science fiction dystopia, but I felt that I shared something with these characters. Also, I almost had a sense of pride for being portuguese like the author, and knowing that there are portuguese authors capable of producing a story like this one. This could easily be a bestselling book in many countries (including Portugal...).
The edition is also great, loved the cover, loved the book, and so...I truly reccomend it. If you love utopian/dystopian fiction, please don´t miss out on this one, and even if you don´t, I highly recomend you give it a chance, as I suspect many people will be surprised (for the best!).
For complete post on this book, please visit my blog:
http://linkedbooks.blogspot.pt/2017/1...
I confess that utopian/dystopian settings always have a great effect on me, and that I just love thinking about, discussing, debating and imagining these kind of things. George Orwell´s 1984 truly blew me away when I was quite young. However, nowadays, I´m not often surprised or feel engaged in utopian/dystopian books or movies, as they always seem to me "stories that have already been told". But I knew this "Algorytm of Power" had got to me, when I realized I spent all my lunch break talking with great enthusiasm about it...
For many chapters I was glued to the book, and just until the final chapters I was planning of giving a five star rating on Goodreads, which is not something that happens to me very often. It was only by the final chapters that the story changed for me. This first three parts I considered amazing, and the last really good. If only the final chapters were different... but well, I have nothing to complain. This was truly one of the best books I read this year. And these are some of the reasons why.
The book is very well written, in a simple but efective style. Straight to the point, without overdoing anything. The story has a sound structure, that goes back and forward in time, with no risk of the reader getting "lost". The story is very original, imaginative and creative, with no need to make up stuff, like often happens in science fiction books, where the contraptions, machines, structures are so "out there" is hard for the reader to get in the story and fully understand it. One of the most interesting things to this story is that is really doesn´t have much new or made up features, but the way the author combines existing things is truly original.
The locations in the story, for us portuguese people, are familiar day to day places everybody or many people know, and yet the author manages to make it totally believable that so much happens or has happened "next door". It´s really an immersive story, and I know this is really strange to say, as it´s a science fiction dystopia, but I felt that I shared something with these characters. Also, I almost had a sense of pride for being portuguese like the author, and knowing that there are portuguese authors capable of producing a story like this one. This could easily be a bestselling book in many countries (including Portugal...).
The edition is also great, loved the cover, loved the book, and so...I truly reccomend it. If you love utopian/dystopian fiction, please don´t miss out on this one, and even if you don´t, I highly recomend you give it a chance, as I suspect many people will be surprised (for the best!).
For complete post on this book, please visit my blog:
http://linkedbooks.blogspot.pt/2017/1...
January 20, 2018
Ao ler a sinopse deste livro fiquei logo curiosa por ser uma história bastante original. Por isso, participei na giveaway do Goodreads. Pouco tempo depois, o autor gentilmente ofereceu-me este livro para apreciação. Agradeço a Pedro Barrento pela oferta e espero que continue a escrever histórias do mesmo género. Estou muito agradecida, até porque depois de o ler, fiquei completamente rendida.
O autor além de inventar um futuro que poderia ser possível em que a tecnologia toma o poder nas nossas vidas, reflete também a vontade de mudança da população portuguesa e até europeia. Principalmente, os sentimentos sobre política e outros aspetos sociais da geração mais jovem. Gostei muito das analogias e descrições da cultura e perspetiva de vida portuguesa (do futuro). Acho que todos os portugueses vão adorar e está escrito como só um lusófono poderia escrever. É uma história que nos prende e é completamente imprevisível do princípio ao fim.
A verdade seja dita, todos temos vontade e, ao mesmo tempo, receio de um futuro em que a tecnologia tem cada vez mais poder. Este livro reflete bem isso e a posição dos portugueses perante a tecnologia.
Espero que tenha segundo volume porque eu adoraria ler a continuação desta história.
Se tem interesse por tecnologia e gosta de humor com um leve toque sarcástico vai adorar. Recomendo.
O autor além de inventar um futuro que poderia ser possível em que a tecnologia toma o poder nas nossas vidas, reflete também a vontade de mudança da população portuguesa e até europeia. Principalmente, os sentimentos sobre política e outros aspetos sociais da geração mais jovem. Gostei muito das analogias e descrições da cultura e perspetiva de vida portuguesa (do futuro). Acho que todos os portugueses vão adorar e está escrito como só um lusófono poderia escrever. É uma história que nos prende e é completamente imprevisível do princípio ao fim.
A verdade seja dita, todos temos vontade e, ao mesmo tempo, receio de um futuro em que a tecnologia tem cada vez mais poder. Este livro reflete bem isso e a posição dos portugueses perante a tecnologia.
Espero que tenha segundo volume porque eu adoraria ler a continuação desta história.
Se tem interesse por tecnologia e gosta de humor com um leve toque sarcástico vai adorar. Recomendo.
April 1, 2018
POTENTIAL SPOILERS AHEAD:
The Algorithm of Power is a unique dystopian thriller set across three centuries spanning from the near present to the distant future. The novel is a well written book with an interesting plot and one that you'll have a hard time putting down. It's a commentary not only on our trust in technology but also draws attention to the problems of our current democratic system. The novel is well written and despite being set across three centuries the stories of all the characters are tied together quite well and I appreciated the detailed explanation of how such a system was implemented and subsequently corrupted. My only complaint is the ending leaves a great deal open to the readers imagination, some will enjoy the openness, I however do not. A sequel is certainly possibly and if one is released I look forward to reading it.
The Algorithm of Power is a unique dystopian thriller set across three centuries spanning from the near present to the distant future. The novel is a well written book with an interesting plot and one that you'll have a hard time putting down. It's a commentary not only on our trust in technology but also draws attention to the problems of our current democratic system. The novel is well written and despite being set across three centuries the stories of all the characters are tied together quite well and I appreciated the detailed explanation of how such a system was implemented and subsequently corrupted. My only complaint is the ending leaves a great deal open to the readers imagination, some will enjoy the openness, I however do not. A sequel is certainly possibly and if one is released I look forward to reading it.
October 14, 2018
The Algorithm of Power is one of a kind, a book based on an idea I hadn't come across before: a society ruled by an operating system. In the opening chapters we are transported into the future, a time when an IT network works to guarantee everyone's wellbeing - provided everyone abides by a base set of rules, obviously. This future world contrasts strongly with the present one we live in, countries have new borders and new names...
Throughout the book the reader slowly discovers how society transitioned to being controlled by the network. The plot ingeniously touches several ethical issues arising from the intrusion of IT into previously human-only areas.
I thoroughly recommend this book, both for its originality and for encouraging reflection on the choices faced by present-day society.
Throughout the book the reader slowly discovers how society transitioned to being controlled by the network. The plot ingeniously touches several ethical issues arising from the intrusion of IT into previously human-only areas.
I thoroughly recommend this book, both for its originality and for encouraging reflection on the choices faced by present-day society.
June 8, 2018
I won this book on a Goodreads' giveaway and I am so sorry I took so long to read it.
This book is amazing. I am a person who loves historical books, and reading this futuristic one made me fell in love with the author.
The story has so much detail and very well thought of a alternative future that may or may not happen, having the ideals of different type of people, technological advance and politics. Also all this happening on my country, Portugal.
This book really got me thinking on what's the best solution for survival and it will be placed on my favorites' shelf.
Can't wait for the next book.
This book is amazing. I am a person who loves historical books, and reading this futuristic one made me fell in love with the author.
The story has so much detail and very well thought of a alternative future that may or may not happen, having the ideals of different type of people, technological advance and politics. Also all this happening on my country, Portugal.
This book really got me thinking on what's the best solution for survival and it will be placed on my favorites' shelf.
Can't wait for the next book.
December 10, 2017
This is an original take on the dystopia of the future genre, and utterly relevant to the state the world is currently in, and the direction in which it seems unavoidably headed. It´s a definite page turner, combining readability with a meditation upon deeper, universal issues. It also has a wry sense of humour which adds to its appeal and the reader´s suspension of disbelief. This is a great Sci-Fi novel which does what it has to - make us think.
January 31, 2018
I wanted to give this book 5 stars, but just could not cross the line to that final star. The first part of the book reads like three short stories of three different characters. They all end at a common point in time where the first story resumes. This would have been a much better story had the book been edited differently, if segments of each POV had overlapped in a web of open loops. The author is a wonderful story teller and the story is well written.
November 12, 2017
This dystopian SF novel, for me, really stood out from the pack. An intricate, cleverly thought-out plot and chillingly analogous situation to today's world made it a compelling read. At first, it seemed fragmented, but the disparate parts are beautifully woven together in the final segment, although I found the ending unsatisfying and would have liked to see a more complete resolution.
November 21, 2018
This is a stimulating and enjoyable book - I found myself thinking about it between reading sessions, and looking forward to picking it up again. The variety of characters and settings are well depicted in depth against a background futuristic history that explores the evolution of science, technology, politics and religion, but with the focus on the motivations and actions of the characters.
December 23, 2018
This is a really great book about technology, the future and about preferences and cultures. It is a funny, amazing and surprising book. I recommend it!
July 7, 2018
#1
One of the best books I've ever read. Hands down. Also the best ending a reader could ever ask for.
One of the best books I've ever read. Hands down. Also the best ending a reader could ever ask for.
April 30, 2020
Numerous authors are exploring the possibilities laid bare by extraordinary emerging technologies. This imaginative story touches on some profound issues of where technology may take us and the power those have that at the levers. Reading this tale, takes you on a plausible future and equips you with the knowledge to take another turn. Looking forward to the sequel, although I’ll be surprised if more can be added to what already has been said. But for this caliber thinker, surprise lies around every corner.
August 28, 2019
Buen libro para distraerse y pasar el tiempo
Le di 4 estrellas a este libro. No 3, porque no es malo como para decir “perdí mi tiempo”, no 5, porque no es como para repetírselo. El tema y el hilo es siempre muy provocativo, es bien escrito y divertido de leer. Pierde un poco el ritmo y el ímpetu con el paso de las páginas.
Le di 4 estrellas a este libro. No 3, porque no es malo como para decir “perdí mi tiempo”, no 5, porque no es como para repetírselo. El tema y el hilo es siempre muy provocativo, es bien escrito y divertido de leer. Pierde un poco el ritmo y el ímpetu con el paso de las páginas.
January 11, 2020
Clever idea
Fascinating story, well conceived and written.
Recommended for all who prefer technocrats or cybersynacy to democracy. A vision and a warning.
Fascinating story, well conceived and written.
Recommended for all who prefer technocrats or cybersynacy to democracy. A vision and a warning.
Want to read
January 11, 2018Snatched this up for free, informed by Bookdoggy email, and like the logo on the cover and the blurb.
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