Book description
Shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Non-Fiction A riveting story of what it means to be human in a world changed by artificial intelligence, revealing the perils and inequities of our growing reliance on automated decision-making On the surface, a British poet, an UberEats courier in Pittsburgh, an Indian doctor, and a Chinese activist in exile have nothing in common. But they are in fact linked by a profound common experience--unexpected encounters with artificial intelligence. In Code Dependent, Murgia shows how automated systems are reshaping our lives all over the world, from technology that marks children as future criminals, to an app that is helping to give diagnoses to a remote tribal community. AI has already infiltrated our day-to-day, through language-generating chatbots like ChatGPT and social media. But it's also affecting us in more insidious ways. It touches everything from our interpersonal relationships, to our kids' education, work, finances, public services, and even our human rights. By highlighting the voices of ordinary people in places far removed from the cozy enclave of Silicon Valley, Code Dependent explores the impact of a set of powerful, flawed, and often-exploitative technologies on individuals, communities, and our wider society. Murgia exposes how AI can strip away our collective and individual sense of agency, and shatter our illusion of free will. The ways in which algorithms and their effects are governed over the coming years will profoundly impact us all. Yet we can't agree on a common path forward. We cannot decide what preferences and morals we want to encode in these entities--or what controls we may want to impose on them. And thus, we are collectively relinquishing our moral authority to machines. In Code Dependent, Murgia not only sheds light on this chilling phenomenon, but also charts a path of resistance. AI is already changing what it means to be human, in ways large and small, and Murgia reveals what could happen if we fail to reclaim our humanity.
About the Author
Madhumita Murgia is an award-winning Indian-British journalist and commentator, who writes about the impact of technology and science on society. She is currently AI Editor at the Financial Times in London, where she leads global coverage of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. She has spent the past decade travelling the world from Silicon Valley to Seoul, writing about the people, start-ups and corporations shaping cutting edge technologies, for publications including WIRED, the Washington Post, Newsweek and the Telegraph. She appears frequently on national radio and TV in the UK, including the BBC's flagship Today program and Sky News. Her TEDx Talk, about her personal data being sold by data brokers has been viewed by nearly 200,000 people online. Madhu lives in London, but her heart remains in her hometown, Mumbai.
Saint La-Z-Boy
ListenBook's support for binaural audio processing is a thoughtful touch that reduces listening fatigue. Simplifying my reading routine – this app's ease of use is remarkable. Navigating audiobooks with ease – this app's functionality is a standout. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook library.
Hightower
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made multitasking with audio content a breeze. The auto-rewind feature after interruptions is a small thing that makes a big difference. ListenBook has rekindled my passion for learning. I'm exploring new topics every day. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Lady Petal
⏰ Waking up to audiobooks – mornings have never been this magical and inspiring! ☀️🎧 I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Sexy
No more carrying heavy books – this app has transformed my reading habits. 🎉 This app is a testament to thoughtful design – its functionality seamlessly blends with my lifestyle, making reading effortless. 📚✨ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative way to make each audiobook unique. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. It transforms the way I enjoy my recordings. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. I can focus on challenging content.
Romance Guppy
This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go – it's my daily companion. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is such a fun way to spread joy. Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a touch of elegance to my audiobook collection. ListenBook has streamlined my audiobook experience. It's a must-have app for enthusiasts. With ListenBook Pro, long audiobooks are no problem. I love it!
Drugstore Cowboy
ListenBook's seamless audio player has turned my listening sessions into moments of pure delight. I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. I can't get enough of this app – it's a true game-changer for book lovers. This was my first audiobook in this genre and I'm hooked! The performance brought the story to life in a way reading never could. Already downloaded another by the same narrator.
Feral Cookie
The narrators have a way of bringing characters to life – it's a unique experience. Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is a true marvel. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a breeze thanks to ListenBook Pro's AirDrop and sharing options. Spread the joy of a good story! The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace.
Highlander Monk
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narrator’s voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Alberta
Effortlessly exploring audiobook worlds – this app's functionality is genius. Seamless audiobook integration – this app's design is a true delight. ListenBook's statistics feature is eye-opening. I had no idea how much time I spent immersed in audiobooks until I started using it.
Twinkle Cocoa
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and efficient. Finally, an app that supports all my audiobook formats! ListenBook is a game-changer. The app is so user-friendly. Even my grandma can use it!
Lady Fantastic
ListenBook's comprehensive support for a wide range of audio formats sets it apart from other audiobook apps. Gone are the days of waiting for the right time to read – this app is always ready. 💪 Achieving double wins – workouts become invigorating with stories to fuel my motivation! 💪🎧 ListenBook's auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that ensures I never miss a single word.
Nickname Master
🎉 Making each day a new chapter – this app keeps me hooked from morning to night! 📖🌄 💡 This app truly understands the needs of audiobook enthusiasts – it delivers an effortless and enjoyable listening experience. 📚🎧 Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks.
LifeRobber
With this app, I can read anytime, anywhere – it's a reader's dream come true. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. It's like having virtual bookshelves! Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app!
AxelRoad
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro adds a personalized touch to my audiobook experience. ListenBook has given me the gift of time – turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives. The narrator's voice was so pleasant and easy to listen to. They had perfect pacing and made even the slower parts engaging. I found myself looking forward to my commute just to listen more!
9Lives
Being able to download audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. ListenBook's compatibility with a wide range of audio formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising.
CuriousCoder
The convenience of having a library at my fingertips is unparalleled. 🎉 This app has ignited my passion for reading – I can't get enough of its convenience! 📚🔥 I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with it—the narration was fine, and the story was okay—but nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
Bug Fire
Audiobooks have become my escape from reality – a journey into captivating worlds. I'm amazed at how this app has made reading such a natural part of my day. Finally, an app that lets me enjoy audiobooks without worrying about file formats! A masterclass in audiobook narration! The performer maintained perfect consistency in character voices throughout while keeping the main narration clear and engaging. The production was flawless - no weird edits or background noise. I'll be seeking out more works by this narrator.
Lady Petal
ListenBook's auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that ensures I never miss a single word. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling.
Third Moon
I appreciate the option to listen to samples before committing to a book. WiFi downloads save a lot of time. Great feature!
Shady Prairie
The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks. The interface is clean and intuitive. I was up and running in seconds. Noise reduction and tone changing are awesome features.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience