More on anti‐spam, history of chess, Russ Ackoff

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review a recent electronic publication on the menace of spam and, related to previous work, look at the dangers the internet holds for children. A valuable source of information on history of chess is reviewed and the death of Prof. Russell Ackoff in Philadelphia is reported, with links to sources of obituaries and further details.

Design/methodology/approach

The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest.

Findings

The data on spam indicate, the nature and extent of the problem it presents. Chess is shown to have deeper historical roots than is widely known. With the death of Russ Ackoff another major figure has disappeared from the scene.

Practical implications

The review of means of combating spam is of undoubted value, as is the mention of a means of seeking police help over internet abuse affecting children. The review of history of chess should be a valuable reference where the game is discussed in an AI context.

Originality/value

It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.

Citation

Andrew, A.M. (2010), "More on anti‐spam, history of chess, Russ Ackoff", Kybernetes, Vol. 39 No. 4, pp. 492-495. https://doi.org/10.1108/03684921011036745