Don't Trust Your Gut is a data geek dream book! It is all about how big data can guide or really not guide the decision we make in our everyday life - from who to marry, what jobs to pursue and how to achieve happiness. The truth - what we think we know isnt always true and data proves that. I learned a lot of interesting tidbits and definitely know that my gut instinct isnt always right. For me (as a parent), the chapter on parenting was the most interesting and helpful.

Such an interesting book! I always wondered if data over gut feeling should direct my life and this book proves that, “yes, data IS the key.” Over 4 years, the author conducted extensive research, spoke to many professionals and consulted large swaths of data to formulate this book. Personally, I love a book that intermixes research with real world examples, so I was a sucker for this book going in, however, I now feel I have a more skeptical eye. Now when I go into Target, I’ll think about the data behind the product rather than going with my initial urge of “I see it, I want it, I gotta have it”. Odd example to bring up? Yes, but it drives home the point of logic over intuition and that is what this book is about, to me at least.

I finished this book about a week ago and don't think I've shut up about it since.

If you're into provocative insights into everyday life featuring data in a fun way (think Freakonomics Radio or FiveThirtyEight style storytelling), this is right up your alley. I didn't realize when I requested this ARC that I had another one of the author's books on my TBR shelf, so that title will be moving up on my priority list as well.

Although not everything was applicable to me at the present - like the parenting chapters - the author still kept my attention and I didn't skim over where I typically might have in another book. Stephens-Davidowitz does a great job of illustrating what big data has proven goes against our natural instincts in areas such as dating, parenting, choosing careers, and more, while not succumbing to the pitfall of stuffing the book with too much, like many other non-fiction and self-help titles tend to do.

The author has such a humorous presentation of data and facts. This book was fascinating and funny at the same time. I immediately started reading his previous book, Everybody Lies.