"The Inmates Are Running the Asylum" by Alan Cooper addresses the problems that arise when technology products are designed by engineers without sufficient consideration for user experience. Cooper argues that software and high-tech products often become overly complex because they're created from the developers' perspectives rather than the users'. He introduces the concept of interaction design and the use of personas to create more user-centered products. By highlighting the disconnect between developers and users, the book emphasizes the importance of human-centered design principles in product development. Cooper advocates for integrating design thinking into the software engineering process to create products that are not only functional but also intuitive and enjoyable for users.