Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked

In his new book, Alter (Drink Tank Pink) notes that although Steve Jobs was the CEO of technology giant Apple, he did not allow his own kids to use iPads. In fact, Jobs admitted to limiting how much technology his own children used. Alter includes this detail to emphasize how addictive digital devices can be—and that those responsible for them are aware of these habit-forming properties. This engaging and readable narrative lays out a succinct and pointed argument that technology can be addictive, bolstering the argument with relevant examples (for instance, World of Warcraft players devote hours upon end to the Internet game, sometimes forsaking everything else in their lives). Alter distinguishes among various types of addiction and discusses the difference between liking something and being dependent on it. Readers, particularly those who struggle with these issues or know someone who does, will find valuable information here. The author makes solid comparisons between compulsive behavior (e.g., gambling) and addictions (e.g., dependence on drugs), showing how our basic biology puts us all at risk. Readers will come away with a sense of how serious addiction can be and what we should do about it.