Lewis's book examines one kind of HFT, argues that it is objectionable, and takes a look at one method of mitigation. Where this bites is that this HFT method i

Lewis's book examines one kind of HFT, argues that it is objectionable, and takes a look at one method of mitigation. Where this bites is that this HFT method is super common and relatively common knowledge to insiders but not outsiders. This criticism, that Lewis doesn't take a comprehensive view, is inapt since Lewis's book is not a treatise on HFT and its implications. It is like criticizing a scientist for publishing an article on a narrow topic rather than describing everything in the world in one giant book. You can say that this method of HFT isn't front-running or that front-running shouldn't be illegal (and back up your case with arguments) but you can't say this criticism of one HFT method is wrong because HFT does other stuff too. Edit: Source: actually read the book