“How algorithms shape our world.

- Kevin Slavin -

Came across this video by Kevin Slavin of TEDTalks today. Was really amazed by his introduction about 2 photographs of the mountain landscape. Then he went on to say that they were doctored to reflect the vicissitudes of the Dow Jones and Hang Seng index. Algorithmic (Black Box) trading was also discussed on how shares are traded via a million small transactions in stock markets. There's some truth in the manner especially in how value of stock markets can get wiped out instantly. According to Kevin, it all boils down to the algorithms of the computer where we have no control over and reflects algorithms in conflict. He goes on and on with stuff such as the Boston Shuffler etc.

Had he not mention the impact of algorithms on our lives, I'd not have realized it myself. Examples such as the robot house cleaner knowing how to move around are used. But what caught my attention is certainly the code built into lift systems. Ever wondered which lifts fetch you each time you are at the lift lobby? Well, they do follow a bin packing algorithm too. It is scary to know how smart machines are programmed but that's the truth though. Eventually, we're just all accustomed and designed to a machine dialect that is characterized by speed. Certainly reflects the social acceleration we experience today both in the form of space and time compression.

Be warned that some parts of the video may be hard to understand but get through it all...enjoy the video:)!