# Inspiring Reads: Women in Technology and Their Impact
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Chapter 1: The Women Who Shape Technology
The tech industry has long been viewed as a male-dominated field; however, numerous women have played pivotal roles in shaping this landscape. A wealth of insightful literature authored by women provides unique viewpoints on our relationship with technology. Here are ten essential reads that shine a light on the contributions of women in tech:
“Programmed Inequality: How Britain Discarded Women Technologists and Lost Its Edge in Computing” by Marie Hicks
This work delves into the overlooked narrative of how the UK’s computing sector became male-centric, detailing the gradual exclusion of women who were once at its core.
Read Programmed Inequality (affiliate)
“Weapons of Math Destruction: How Big Data Increases Inequality and Threatens Democracy” by Cathy O’Neil
This book uncovers the sinister aspects of algorithms, demonstrating their potential for bias and discrimination, which ultimately perpetuates societal inequalities.
Read Weapons of Math Destruction (affiliate)
“The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power” by Shoshana Zuboff
This investigation into the rise of major tech firms reveals how they manipulate personal data and how we can reclaim control over our digital identities.
Read The Age of Surveillance Capitalism (affiliate)
“Brotopia: Breaking Up the Boys’ Club of Silicon Valley” by Emily Chang
In this revealing book, the author tackles the pervasive sexism in Silicon Valley and proposes actionable strategies for fostering diversity and inclusion within the tech world.
Read Brotopia (affiliate)
“Reset: My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change” by Ellen Pao
This memoir narrates the author's experiences at some of Silicon Valley's leading companies and her legal battle against gender discrimination at one of them.
Read Reset (affiliate)
“Race After Technology: Abolitionist Tools for the New Jim Code” by Ruha Benjamin
This thought-provoking book examines the intersections of race and technology, advocating for the creation of fair and equitable tech systems.
Read Race After Technology (affiliate)
“The Internet of Women: Accelerating Culture Change” by Nada Anid and Linda Bernardi
This book encourages women's participation in the Internet of Things (IoT) and emphasizes their potential to drive social change.
Read The Internet of Women (affiliate)
“Technically Wrong: Sexist Apps, Biased Algorithms, and Other Threats of Toxic Tech” by Sara Wachter-Boettcher
This insightful book investigates how technology can harm marginalized groups, offering suggestions for creating more ethical and inclusive tech solutions.
Read Technically Wrong (affiliate)
“Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men” by Caroline Criado Perez
This book sheds light on the gender data gap and its detrimental effects on women in various sectors, including healthcare and employment.
Read Invisible Women (affiliate)
Final Thoughts
These literary works by women provide essential insights into the influence of technology on our lives and propose pathways to develop more equitable systems. They are invaluable for anyone interested in the societal dimensions of technology and those aspiring to contribute to a more inclusive future.
In this compelling video, Nancy Wang discusses the importance of empowering women in technology and the steps we can take to foster inclusivity within the industry.
Alvin Irby shares his insights on inspiring children to embrace reading for life, emphasizing the importance of literacy in shaping future innovators.
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