Beyond the Algorithm

How AI Shapes Our Perception of Reality.

Ever wondered why your feed shows some posts and skips others? It kinda feels like it “knows” what you want to see, doesn't it? That's due to an algorithm - scarily enough, a whole string of computer code - that picks out what it thinks you will want to see. Every time you scroll, like, or comment, it learns something more about you.

But here’s the kicker: it doesn’t just show you some random stuff. The algorithm creates a tiny world, just for you, showing things it believes will keep you hooked. And while that may be nice, it also conceals a great deal of things you might miss out on.

The World It Builds Around You:

Suppose you like to watch videos about space or sports. The algorithm then picks it up, and keeps on giving you such. Soon, the feed could be all videos about space or sports highlights, and fewer things outside those topics. It’s like being in a room with only your favorite things, but that room gets smaller and smaller over time.

It’s what’s called an “echo chamber.” You feel like it’s all the same stuff that everyone around you is talking about, but in reality, it’s just the algorithm putting the same things in front of you constantly.

How to See More of the World:

Mix it Up: You may start following new people or topics that are different from what you usually like. This way, you would be able to see more ideas and new things.

Be Careful What You Click: Each time you click, Like, or Follow, it is a vote—the algorithm learns. So, if you want a mix of things, make sure to engage with different kinds of content.

Take a break: Sometimes, stop looking at your feed and call up friends or family members to talk about what’s going on around the world. In-person interactions may be unfiltered, wherein you may be able to see things in a new light.

And remember, you’re in control over what the algorithm shows by mixing it up every once in a while regarding what you are looking at and sometimes walking away from the screen.

It’s your world; don’t let an algorithm choose everything you see.

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