In summary:
- Top book recommendations from our AI leaders that shaped their thinking.
- From ethics and existential risks to practical GenAI applications.
- Perfect end-of-summer picks: thought-provoking, accessible, and inspiring for all curious minds.
Summer may be coming to a close, but there’s still time to dive into a thought-provoking book – especially if you’re curious about the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI). We asked our in-house AI experts to share their top picks: books that have challenged, inspired, and informed them in their work.
Over the last few weeks, we’ve been sharing these recommendations on LinkedIn as part of our AI Summer Reads series. Each post has featured one of our experts and the book that’s shaped their thinking about AI – and now we’ve brought them all together here in one place.
Whether you’re an AI enthusiast, a business leader, or just looking for an engaging read, this list has something for you.
Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence by Max Tegmark
Recommended by Susannah Matschke, Head of AI Foundations.
“I really think it's such an important book to start understanding what Artificial Intelligence will mean for society. It breaks down complex technical and philosophical ideas in an approachable way.”
Tegmark’s book explores the possibilities of AI shaping the future of life on Earth and beyond. It’s accessible, thought-provoking, and a must-read for anyone curious about where this technology might take us next.
The AI Does Not Hate You by Tom Chivers
Recommended by Susannah Matschke, Head of AI Foundations.
For her second pick, Susannah recommends Chivers’ witty and insightful book:
“an increasingly relevant book about AI and its associated risks, particularly useful for those who are having sleepless nights over AI existential risk. Reassuring, approachable and contains one of my favourite thought experiments in the form of Nick Bostrom's paperclip maximiser.”
This book explores the risks of AI and the community of thinkers trying to understand what it means for the future of humanity, mixing serious ideas with surprising and accessible examples.
Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI by Ethan Mollick
Recommended by Becky Davis, AI Consulting Director.
“I was gifted this book by a colleague after a conversation we had together, and I have paid it forward by gifting it to others! It is such an important book and helped me to really understand what AI, especially Gen AI, is all about. It's pragmatic and an easy read.”
In the book, Mollick offers a practical, hands-on guide to embracing AI as a coach, collaborator, and co-worker. A fantastic read for anyone looking to integrate AI into their day-to-day work.
Scary Smart: The Future of Artificial Intelligence and How You Can Save Our World by Mo Gawdat
Recommended by Becky Davis, AI Consulting Director.
Becky’s second recommendation brings a hopeful perspective:
“I find Mo Gawdat’s thought process and writing style fascinating, it's very unique (I have read all his books!). He weaves together his deep technical insight from his career at Microsoft X with wisdom from Eastern and Western philosophies. This book gave me hope that AI can be a force for good when guided by ethics.”
Gawdat’s blend of expertise and philosophy makes this an inspiring read for anyone exploring the intersection of ethics, AI, and human potential.
The Coming Wave: AI, Power, and Our Future by Mustafa Suleyman
Recommended by Gary Craven, Head of AI Strategy.
“This book from one of AI’s foremost pioneers left me both exhilarated and unsettled. The possibilities for humanity and our planet are boundless – and so are the risks. Seeing someone at the cutting edge of innovation also advocating for responsible, governed use of AI truly resonates with me, especially when guiding my clients on adopting AI wisely.”
Suleyman’s book is a compelling call to action, exploring both the promise and peril of AI and emerging technologies.
Why these books matter
These books capture a range of perspectives on AI – from practical guides and personal reflections to deep dives into ethics, philosophy, and the future of technology. Whether you’re curious about the risks, eager to understand how AI can transform your work, or simply looking for an inspiring read, this list should offer something to spark your thinking.
A big thank you to our contributors – Gary Craven, Becky Davis, and Susannah Matschke – for sharing the books that have shaped their views on AI and inspired their work.
We’d also love to hear from you: what books have you been reading this summer that you’d recommend? Share your top picks with us on LinkedIn – we’re always looking for fresh ideas and thought-provoking reads to add to our list.