Are Algorithms Controlling Us?

The Create Unknown

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This week we dive into Technology Connections’ latest video, “Algorithms Are Breaking How We Think.” Kevin breaks down the concept of algorithmic complacency—a term Alec (aka Technology Connections) coined to describe how our internet habits have drastically changed.

We explore how times have changed from the active searches of days gone by to the passive algorithmic consumption of today. Kevin unpacks how platforms like YouTube have evolved, with users increasingly relying on recommendations instead of subscriptions, and what that means for content discovery.

Then, we get into the bigger picture, how does this shift impact things like attention span, learning behaviors, and cognitive processing? Kevin dives into the psychology of decision-making and probability, drawing upon knowledge from an old Vsauce2 video on the Monty Hall problem as a prime example.

Finally, we look ahead to the future of AI and its growing influence on human thought. Will algorithmic complacency make us less capable of independent decision-making? What happens when AI dictates not just what we watch, but how we think? How can we stay curious and engaged in an era of algorithm-driven content, and how are kids even supposed to focus anymore?

Thanks for tuning in, we’ll be back next week!

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CREDITS:

Hosts: Kevin Lieber and Matt Tabor

Executive Producer: Ben Webster

Editor: Spencer Vann

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Opening Animation: Kidmograph

City Animation: Eric Langlay

"The Create Unknown" is produced by Unknown Media.

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