Week 5

Comment on the reading/article:ABC News. (2017). When algorithms control information, what of democracy?. [online] Available at: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-08-10/ai-democracy-google-facebook/8782970?pfmredir=sm

Reading this article was an eye opener. It is quite scary to think how technology is taking over in every aspect of our lives. Knowing that an algorithm can evaluate our character by our social media likes and know us better than the closest people we know, is a definitely scary thought. It’s even more frightening to know that these algorithms have the power to manipulate our opinions and behaviours by sending us selective information and altering how we view specific political agendas. Despite this, it’s nice to know that these algorithms can also have a positive impact on the world by using the data they collect to assist vulnerable people. 

Do I think that the general public is aware of this issue? Well yes and no. I believe people know some things about technologies that they hear through the news or conversations through friends and family. People do have a general idea about how the internet, our devices and social media are ‘listening to us’ and how that results in specific information or advertisements being targeted at us. However, I don’t think they know, understand and actively think about the full extent of the impact of algorithms. It is important for the public to know where the information they interact with comes from and to have transparency with how algorithms work. 

A few actions can be taken to ensure that these algorithms are not being used for selfish organisational purposes or in any other negative way. There definitely needs to be regulations and policies made by the government in terms of how these algorithms and technologies are allowed to be used.  They need to be regulated in terms of ensuring organisations aren’t using this technology to manipulate a person for either personal or organisational gain. Having regulations is important to ensure that these technologies are being used ethically. Even though making regulations and policies would be a difficult task due to the forever emerging and changing technologies, it is one that needs to be done. Laws also need to be placed to ensure that if the technology is used in an unethical manner that people face appropriate consequences for their actions. 

It is important for everyone to be educated and understand how these technologies operate to ensure they are not victims of manipulation by technology. It’s scary to think that soo many people out there may be susceptible to manipulation because they are digitally illiterate. Considering the issue of the digital divide, this issue affects many people of the community and world. I believe safe use of technology and data ethics should definitely be taught at university but I believe it should be taught to people who do not to go to university as well.  It should be taught to the upcoming new generations at schools, to people of a community as technology is the way of the future and this is something that concerns the whole population.