I received notice today that my book review has been published by CHOICE (May, 2011 issue). Since many readers of this weblog may not have direct access to their publication, I have included a copy here as well.
Partridge, Derek. The seductive computer: why IT systems always fail. Springer, 2011. 323p index afp ISBN 9781849964975 pbk, $59.95
Experienced computer professionals will appreciate this book’s subtitle. Partridge (emer., Univ. of Exeter, UK) has divided the volume into four parts: “The Joy of Programming,” “The Way of the Seducer,” “Pieces of Resistance,” and “The End of the Affair.” The first part covers most of the fundamental constructs of programming. Although some materials are a bit dated, the author presents the main concepts clearly, providing a reasonable understanding of the programming process. Partridge goes to great lengths to explain the problems with computers (e.g., their inability to deal precisely with real numbers and always settling for an approximation). Throughout the second part, he discusses psychology (and why so many young males are attracted to this endeavor). He also covers various aspects of computer security and the potential for flaw introduction. Part 3 addresses partial solutions to the problems outlined earlier. Numerous examples help illustrate the associated complexity of computer systems. The last section summarizes the current state of IT systems and how they might be improved. Overall, the well-written book provides a good starting point for serious discussions. It will be most useful for those with significant experience with computer systems since they will be able to fully appreciate the arguments presented. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above.
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