Book review: Data-ism: Inside The Big Data Revolution

IT is a long time since that old chestnut about computer geeks inheriting the earth began doing the rounds but, as this book points out, it’s maths nerds who are the real stars.

Oneworld, €19.50

The New York Times chief technology correspondent Steve Lohr looks at the way technology has created a constant stream of data on everything we do, from business and shopping to saving lives in hospital intensive-care wards.

However, the challenge is to find answers and insights from this tidal wave of information, described here as “a digital form of constant vigilance”.

Most solutions can be found in the roots of maths and Lohr, part of a Pulitzer prize-winning team, has included mini-bios of the brightest and best mathematicians out there, offering a glimpse into the mindset of those with the power to transform the future.