Great book about the extent, causes and consequences of the digital transformation

In this exciting and informative book, the two authors describe the causes and consequences of the rapid development of digital technologies. The term "Second Machine Age" refers to the modern information technology that will transform our society according to the authors as much as the industrial revolution.

The first few chapters show some examples of technological advances that were considered impossible until recently, and justify how such a development has been made possible. The characteristics of the digital shift (exponentially, digital and combinatorial innovation) cause the major part of the potential that lies in digital technologies, has not been exhausted.

Technological developments draw two significant economic consequences: A wider access to affordable, digital goods (such as music, encyclopedia), but also rising inequality (English: bounty and spread). Subsequently, the two authors of the potential impact on economic variables such as GDP or unemployment.

In the third major topic for policy recommendations and individuals are submitted to withstand the changes that are caused by technological change. Here, some interesting concepts such as improved education through online courses, unconditional basic income or negative income tax find.

The authors have always manages their academic experience as professors at MIT to be combined with practical knowledge and thus give the reader a comprehensive perspective of the social, economic and political change through information technologies. The result is a fascinating book that extent, causes and consequences of the digital transformation vividly describes. Strong buy recommendation.