Algorithms

Algorithms shape the online information we see by determining search results, recommendations, and content moderation. They rank results and recommendations based on relevance and user preferences using techniques like machine learning. However, algorithms can also reflect and even exacerbate bias if not developed carefully.

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Algorithms

Uploaded by

denzel.ariya

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Question (Computer Science): How do algorithms shape the online information we see?

Algorithms — sets of rules that must be followed when solving a problem1 — are essential aspects that shape the online
information we view.

From researching, watching shows, or scrolling on social media, many activities apply the wide notion of algorithms. These
systematic procedures are often used when managing our display of information, pursued to convey suitable, and refined topics.

For instance, while searching online, the relevance of the results we are shown is based on algorithms. Engines use a common 3-
step process: crawling, indexing, and ranking. These play a dynamic part in determining the context of sites, as well as displaying
them based on their correlation with queries.2 Over time, the renowned search engine Google has attempted to enact multiple
methods of ranking. The Panda update was designed to rank sites based on quality; the Hummingbird update improved intent
understanding within human language; and RankBrain integrates artificial intelligence to analyze historical search data. 3
Algorithms of this nature have a significant role in ranking the selection of sites we choose, prioritizing safe and quality
information.

Similarly, personalization utilizes user preferences to rank recommendations. Many social media, streaming services, or e-
commerce take account of preference history through details such as likes and shares. Just like in algorithms of search engines,
most would compare content with preference history for determining ranks. A well-known streaming platform, Netflix has a very
accurate way of advocating its shows. Its algorithm makes estimations based on many intricate features such as ratings, genre,
viewer patterns, watch time, and devices used.4 Programs like these aim to further involve users – and therefore make use of
personalization systems, collecting many elements to expand understanding of their interests.

Furthermore, censorship of inappropriate language or imagery relies on algorithms. Moderation of content follows systems
consisting of AI to extract patterns in data, such as inappropriate language or visuals. Facebook’s moderation system exemplifies
this, implementing multitudes of models to detect posts that do not follow community standards.5

Given these common examples, undoubtedly, one form of problem-solving stands out. Artificial intelligence plays an influential
role in algorithms nowadays, and it in itself, uses complex algorithms. AI is known for its learning and analysis. To do so
involves advanced instructions that allow it to perform by itself, simulating the reasoning behind human intelligence. Yet,
analyzing different features requires training with vast amounts of labeled data to find patterns.6 Once adopted, predictions
following similar sequences in training can be identified more often.

However, by using algorithms and machine learning, constraints are nonetheless imminent. Algorithmic bias particularly, is a vast
problem caused by this. This distinct form of bias results in unfair outcomes due to flaws during development. Artificial
intelligence mainly mimics decisions by how it is trained, depending on the type and amount of data provided. Hence, algorithms
may create wrong assumptions or one-sided opinions. Reflecting on Facebook, if posts are suspected of false removal, they often
require a human review team to check. Nonetheless, they seek to improve this by allowing the AI to learn from its flaws,
familiarizing itself with more accurate detection.5

In summary, much of the information that we see online is affected by algorithms for the most appropriate and relevant content.
Regardless, potential forms of bias should be anticipated and be aware of.

1
‘Algorithms’, Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/algorithm, accessed 22 December 2023

2
‘How search algorithms power search engines’, Brave, 2023, https://brave.com/learn/how-search-engines-work, accessed 23 December 2023

3
E. Rubio, ‘The History of the Google Algorithm’, ClearVoice, 2023, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/history-google-algorithm-clearvoice, accessed 23 December
2023

4
‘How Netflix’s Recommendations System Works’, Netflix Help Center, https://help.netflix.com/en/node/100639?q=How%20Netflix%E2%80%99s
%20Recommendations%20System%20Work, accessed 23 December 2023

5
‘How does Facebook use artificial intelligence to moderate content?’, Facebook Help Center, https://www.facebook.com/help/1584908458516247, accessed 23
December 2023

6
N. Laskowski, L. Tucci, ‘artificial intelligence (AI)’, TechTarget, 2023, https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/AI-Artificial-Intelligence, accessed 24
December 2023
Bibliography

‘Algorithms’, Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/algorithm, accessed 22 December

2023

Laskowski. N, Tucci. L, ‘artificial intelligence (AI)’, TechTarget, 2023, https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/AI-Artificial-

Intelligence, accessed 24 December 2023

‘How does Facebook use artificial intelligence to moderate content?’, Facebook Help Center
https://www.facebook.com/help/1584908458516247, accessed 23 December 2023

‘How Netflix’s Recommendations System Works’, Netflix Help Center, https://help.netflix.com/en/node/100639?q=How%20Netflix%E2%80%99s

%20Recommendations%20System%20Work, accessed 23 December 2023

‘How search algorithms power search engines’, Brave, 2023, https://brave.com/learn/how-search-engines-work, accessed 23 December 2023