CodeNewbie Community 🌱

Cover image for Book Review: Trampled by Unicorns
Aaron McCollum
Aaron McCollum

Posted on

Book Review: Trampled by Unicorns

Alt Text

Outside of writing on what I'm learning in the coding world, I want to write a bit in the "watercooler" section about some fun books I'm reading in 2021. Some will be based around the tech industry, while others might focus on sports, politics, history/biographies, etc.

Also a quick note - My first book for 2021 was written by the former COO of a company I used to work for (Compass), however I was not asked to write this nor am I receiving any benefits whatsoever for writing about it. I picked it up out of my interest in the book's subject.

"Trampled by Unicorns" by Maelle Gavet is a fun read for anyone who enjoys technology. Our lives are shaped by technology, especially the large "big tech" companies - Apple, Google/Alphabet, Microsoft, Amazon, Facebook to name a few. Maelle argues that while these companies have done a lot of really cool things and made some really awesome products, their impact on society isn't always positive. There is a lack of empathy for society and people in the world of "Big Tech" and venture capitalist, and the lack of empathy is replaced by an hyperfocus on growth and power.

The book is split into two halves. The first half explains various problems caused by Big Tech, like tax avoidance, hurting local communities where their HQs are at, psychopathic leaders, and more.

While finishing the first half of the book left me feeling bleak about the future, the second half is full of potential solutions to tackle the problems listed in the first half. But Maelle is able to write about this without completely bringing down technology - in fact, she is a huge fan of technology and is optimistic about the role that everyone plays in advancing society. Her solutions are a mix of government regulation, personal choices, and long-term business decisions that big tech companies can make today.

From the Cambridge Analytica scandal a few years ago, to the toxic social media culture and fears on internet privacy, we have all experienced at least a little of what Maelle writes about in her book. I highly recommend it to any tech fans out there. You can check out more information on Trampled by Unicorns here along with various places you can buy it.

Top comments (3)

Collapse
 
larrymartin1job profile image
Larry Martin

Absolutely resonated with Maelle Gavets insights on Trampled by Unicorns. The dichotomy between tech innovation and societal impact is starkly laid out. Her proposed solutions offer hope amid the concerns raised.
Best Exterior Painting Services in Beaverton Oregon

Collapse
 
dfghthsdrg profile image
dfghthsdrg

Mathematics assignments can be a real struggle. The pressure of deadlines and the complexity of problems can make academic life challenging. Thankfully, I stumbled upon this site domyhomework123.com/math , and it was a game-changer. Their math assignment help is nothing short of exceptional. They not only provide accurate solutions but also ensure that assignments are well-structured and error-free. I recommend their services.

Collapse
 
ashleymorriss profile image
ashleymorriss • Edited

Essays on books, sometimes known as book reviews, provide critical analysis of published works. Best Writers Online bestwritersonline.com/ has the greatest writers for your paper. Doing a project like this may help students develop their critical reading skills and get deeper understanding of the subject matter. Writing essays is a common assignment for secondary school and high school students. While writing such essays, keep to the basic rules.