The Maths of Life and Death

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This is an exquisitely interesting and deeply serious book that is delightfully readable, even for those with little math background. Kit Yates, a natural storyteller, uses fascinating examples to illustrate how mathematics is central to modern life. Mathematics, when used wisely, can save lives; when misapplied, it can lead to disaster. This account reveals why math matters in everyone's life, serving as a real eye-opener. Math is the story of the world around us, offering wisdom that can differentiate between success and failure. We engage with math daily, from communication to travel, work, and leisure. While many recognize its presence, few appreciate its profound influence in offices, homes, courtrooms, and hospitals. Yates explores true stories of life-changing events shaped by the application or misapplication of mathematics—ranging from patients affected by faulty genes to entrepreneurs bankrupted by flawed algorithms, and innocent victims of miscarriages of justice. Through these narratives, Yates provides simple mathematical rules and tools to help us navigate an increasingly quantitative society. Readers will learn the importance of questioning statistics, the necessity of seeking second opinions, and the surprising utility of the 37% rule.