Discussion post This is a discussion entry, written by an external contributor. The post expresses the views of the author.
A lot has happened in machine learning since Wolfgang von Kempelen introduced his chess-playing automaton, known as the Turk, in the 18th century. Back then, it was the mechanical illusion that amazed and amazed. Today, we are surrounded by algorithms that not only perform complex tasks, but also collect and analyze our data to sell products and make money for the elite.
In George Orwell’s dystopian novel “1984,” the concept of Big Brother as an all-seeing, all-knowing entity is a terrifying reality. In today’s digital age, Big Brother has taken on a new form in the form of artificial intelligence (AI), which monitors and analyzes our digital footprints.
AI knows how we live, and it can improve our habits by giving us more of what we spend time doing. We risk ending up in our own personal echo chamber if we don’t wake up and take back control of our digital lives.
We are surrounded by algorithms that control what we see and experience on social media. These algorithms are designed based on our interests, preferences, and online behavior. I can clearly see how AI has picked up on my interests in hiking, cushioned sneakers, vegan food, vacations, menopause, swimming, and women’s clothing over 50.
But who are we really in these algorithms? Is it an accurate reflection of our true identity, or a composite version that only shows part of who we are?
AI has learned a lot about me and is trying to keep me online by giving me what I like. But when I’m bombarded with articles about narcissism accompanied by ads for boot camps and compression socks, I start to wonder.
As an avid reader of tech literature, it occurred to me that I might be a bit self-absorbed. At the same time, I know that artificial intelligence is amplifying our interests and shaping what we eat online.
I just want to live a healthy, sustainable lifestyle, connect with positive people and contribute to a better life for myself and those around me. I don't want to be a selfish, accidental being focused on myself.
Health is my main idea. AI is right that I am 50 years old and I want to extend the healthy part of my life. As an employee of one of the largest gyms in the city, I know how important it is to take care of your body through a healthy diet and regular exercise.
For me, health and body are about lifestyle – what we do every day affects how we feel physically and mentally. Maybe AI thinks I need to buy Temu shoes and tattoo my eyebrows to get that.
At the fitness center, I value social interaction with others who also care about health. The AI suggests expensive training trips as an add-on, but there is something unique about training outdoors under the blue sky in the forest. The wind on the face and the sun on the skin gives an inner peace and joy that money can’t buy.
It’s time to wake up and take back control of our digital lives. We need to recognize how AI and algorithms control our habits and interests, and actively choose to focus on a healthy, balanced lifestyle that aligns with our values and goals.
By taking control of our digital interactions and consciously choosing what we want to be exposed to, we can create a more harmonious existence that promotes health and well-being.
Let’s get out of our personal echo chambers and start on the path to a healthy and sound life. It’s time to take back control, before AI and algorithms take over our lives in a big way.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to stop this drive unless we consciously self-isolate, turn off our screens, tie our own shoes, and disappear from the networks we have come to rely on so heavily.
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