Arguing With An Algorithm

Send us Fan MailArguing With An AlgorithmThe other day I was all set to fire back at an AI program I'd asked for help.It commented on one of my sentences and said:"It's a strong line rhetorically, but it's not literally true."The problem was . . . it was literally true. Every fact backed it up.I could feel myself reaching for my keyboard, ready to set the record straight with a poison pen email.Then a thought popped into my head that stopped me cold:"You're about to argue with an algorithm."I had to laugh.Here I was, getting worked up over software.But it also got me thinking.Our online world is full of bots, algorithms, and anonymous accounts designed to push our buttons. They don't just spread disinformation – they spread raw emotion. Outrage gets clicks. Anger gets shared. And before long, we're reacting instead of thinking.I've seen smart people repost things that could easily be disproven with two minutes of checking. The post may support what they already believe, but repeating something false doesn't make it true. And as a result the label of “uninformed” gets stuck on you.Maybe here’s the real lesson.Before you argue . . .Before you repost . . .Before you tell the world exactly how right this opinion is . . .Take a moment to check the facts – and check yourself.It may save you from arguing with an algorithm.All the best,John