Decoding the Algorithm

The discussion is about algorithms and their impact on people's online experiences. The algorithm is described as a way to cater to people's interests, but it can also create addictive behavior and lead to shorter attention spans, especially among younger generations. The lack of balanced discussions and diversity in the algorithm's content can be problematic and challenge people's worldviews. This can have negative effects on mental health, causing feelings of isolation and difficulty in developing arguments. The episode concludes with a mention of a Pocket Chef cooking assistant and an upcoming episode on the Presidential Debate. If folks are all about that pineapple on pizza, then let them enjoy it. Welcome to today's episode. I am here with technology expert Mark now, jumping straight into it. Mark, what do you think of the algorithm, the system that is on every app, every website? You know, it's a tricky topic because the algorithm is what helps keep people entertained in their interest, but I guess a good way to describe it is algorithm is basically what feeds us what we want and caters those things to use online. But I do feel like the problem comes when it starts creating addictive behavior and that becomes a real issue, especially for the younger generations because it's causing low attention spans. Yeah, those are some really good topics. Do you have anything else to add for now? Nah, I think that is pretty much it for the first part. All right. Thank you for being here, Mark. See you later, mate. Thanks for having me. All right. We will have a quick break, grab any snacks you want and yeah, we'll jump back into it. Attention foodies. Struggling in the kitchen? Meet the Pocket Chef, your pocket-sized cooking assistant. With over 1,000 recipes, step-by-step video guidance and meal prep tips, you'll whip up gourmet meals in no time. Order now and get a free magnetic spice rack to organize your kitchen. Visit pocketchef.com.au and unleash your inner chef today. I don't know about you, but I'm definitely going to use that Pocket Chef anyway back into it. I am currently with Russell who worked in technology. Russell, tell me about your point on the algorithm. Ah, yep. So obviously the algorithm optimizes engagement. But what I've also seen is that the algorithm also shows strong emotional material and the problem with this is that it doesn't really involve any balanced discussions. Obviously this is bad because there is no diversity and it also challenges worldview for some people. Interesting point. And that first part sounded very similar to what Mark said. Do you have any other points or ideas? I do actually. So obviously all these factors have effects and the most common one is actually mental health issues. It's mainly caused because of isolation. But this isolation feeling is caused by feeling misjudged because of other viewpoints. Another good one is struggling to develop a good argument because of the lack of viewpoints. All right. Thanks, Russell. And shout out to Mark as well for helping with this episode. Hopefully you learned something new. Next episode, Presidential Debate. Stay tuned for that. Have a good one and see you soon.