The Glass Cage: Automation and Us - Nicholas Carr (Book)

Title: The Glass Cage: Automation and Us

Author: Nicholas Carr

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company

Publication Date: September 29, 2014

Category: Non-fiction / Technology / Society

In The Glass Cage, Nicholas Carr explores the profound impact of automation on human behavior, cognition, and society. Drawing from diverse fields such as history, psychology, and technology, Carr examines how increasing reliance on computers and algorithms—from autopilot systems in aviation to GPS navigation and medical diagnostics—can lead to a decline in human skills and engagement.

Carr argues that while automation offers convenience and efficiency, it also poses risks by diminishing our autonomy and capacity for critical thinking. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between technological advancement and human involvement, advocating for designs that keep humans actively engaged rather than passive observers.

The book has been recognized for its insightful analysis, with Wired magazine including it in its list of top tech books of 2014. Carr’s work encourages readers to critically assess the role of automation in their lives and consider the broader implications for society.