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When Algorithms Control the World

Posted by samzenpus on from the break-out-the-tin-foil-hat dept.

MTCicero writes "The BBC has an interesting if not apocalyptic take on the spread of algorithms into everyday life. Perhaps the author should have spent a little more time discussing how algorithms in everyday life have improved things like communications, medical care, etc... I guess doom and gloom sells more ads. From the article: 'At last month's TEDGlobal conference, algorithm expert Kevin Slavin delivered one of the tech show's most "sit up and take notice" speeches where he warned that the "maths that computers use to decide stuff" was infiltrating every aspect of our lives. Among the examples he cited were a robo-cleaner that maps out the best way to do housework, and the online trading algorithms that are increasingly controlling Wall Street.'"

2 of 150 comments (clear)

  1. How do you get that job? by Toonol · · Score: 4, Funny

    algorithm expert Kevin Slavin

    Algorithm expert? Is he an official algorithm expert? Credentialed in all forms of algorithm?

    I suspect it is as much a self-appointed moniker as 'Bill S Preston, Esquire.'

  2. Re:My son has been using Algorithm for 6 months by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Funny

    Maybe you should leave the room when he's about to watch porn.