This kind of machine-based learning is driven by a hunger for knowledge, not by a desire to show off your talent or to “signal” as we economists say. If you’re not a good player, the fact that you studied with a top teacher doesn’t mean a thing. No one is impressed and no one will want you to play for their team. There is nothing comparable to the glow resulting from a Harvard degree: Announcing “I studied with Rybka” would bring gales of laughter, since anyone can do that. Indeed, the best chess teacher takes all comers and has every incentive to do so. The company selling Rybka tries to make
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