Berkeley, CA – Professor Ben Recht of the University of California, Berkeley, has announced the upcoming release of his new book, "The Irrational Decision," now available for pre-order from Princeton University Press. The book delves into how the computer revolution has shaped our understanding of rationality, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to decision-making that integrates human elements. Recht promoted the work via social media, stating, > "What’s The Irrational Decision about? Read about it here. https://t.co/AudOx8LJ12."
"The Irrational Decision" critically examines the historical development of mathematical rationality, tracing how fields like optimization, game theory, statistical testing, and machine learning have defined decision-making as a statistical question of risk. The book highlights the inherent limitations of this purely computational framework, asserting that complex, value-based, or political questions necessitate human intuition and judgment. It proposes moving beyond cold, mathematical calculations to embrace a broader perspective.
Benjamin Recht is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences at UC Berkeley, renowned for his contributions to machine learning and control theory. His previous works include "Patterns, Predictions, and Actions: Foundations of Machine Learning," co-authored with Moritz Hardt, which has further established his expertise in the theoretical underpinnings of computational decision-making. His academic background provides a unique vantage point for this critical analysis.
The book's release is particularly timely given the increasing integration of artificial intelligence and advanced algorithms into various aspects of daily life and critical decision-making processes. "The Irrational Decision" contributes to the ongoing global discourse about the ethical implications and societal impact of technology, urging a re-evaluation of how we define and implement rationality. It serves as a foundational text for those navigating the complex interplay between human agency and algorithmic influence.
As announced on August 4, 2025, the book invites readers to explore its central thesis: that while computational tools are supportive, human intuition, morality, and judgment remain indispensable for truly rational outcomes. Early reactions from Recht's blog, where he first announced the book, indicate significant interest from readers grappling with the balance between systematized processes and innate human understanding. The publication is expected to spark further discussion within academic and industry circles.