We live in an increasingly connected and technological world. Every day, we use smartphones, browse the internet, watch movies on streaming platforms, and interact on social networks.
But have you ever wondered how all this works behind the screens? The answer lies in algorithms.
What are algorithms?
Imagine a cake recipe. It provides step-by-step instructions for you to mix the ingredients and bake a delicious cake at the end. Algorithms work similarly: they are instructions that tell the computer how to perform a specific task.
But don’t think they’re exclusive to programmers or technology specialists. In fact, algorithms are present in almost all areas of our modern life, often without us realizing it.
Data, information and knowledge
Every day, we produce an enormous amount of data: photos we take, messages we send, websites we visit. Alone, this data doesn’t mean much. It’s like having cake ingredients scattered around the kitchen.
Algorithms come into play to organize and process this data, transforming it into useful information. For example, when you search for “best restaurants near me,” the search engine’s algorithm analyzes available data and provides an organized list of options.
When we interpret this information and use it to make decisions — like choosing where to have dinner — it becomes knowledge. It’s a continuous cycle: data is processed into information, which in turn becomes knowledge.
Artificial intelligence in our daily lives
Artificial intelligence (AI) takes algorithms to a new level. It allows machines to “learn” from data and make decisions autonomously. Have you noticed how Netflix suggests movies that match your taste? Or how your smartphone predicts the words you’re going to type next? That’s AI working behind the scenes.
Let’s reflect a bit?
Do you trust the suggestions that digital platforms make for you? Have you ever wondered why certain ads appear for you on the internet? How do you feel knowing that machines are learning based on your online behavior?
The two sides of the coin
Technology has brought incredible conveniences, but it also raises some important questions:
Privacy: To what extent are we willing to share our data in exchange for convenience? Dependence: Are we becoming too dependent on machines to make decisions for us? Transparency: Do we have the right to know how algorithms are working and influencing our choices?
The importance of regulating AI technology
It’s essential to recognize that, beyond advances and conveniences, technology can also be used in ways that don’t benefit society as a whole. It’s not just about fearing an artificial intelligence that might act independently, but being aware of misuse by humans themselves.
Power in the wrong hands
Companies and individuals can use algorithms and AI to manipulate information, influence opinions, or prioritize profits over social welfare. For example:
Misinformation: Algorithms can amplify fake news, creating information bubbles that distort reality. Algorithmic Discrimination: AI systems can perpetuate or even exacerbate existing prejudices, affecting employment opportunities, credit, and much more. Compromised Privacy: Excessive data collection can lead to privacy invasions and misuse of personal information.
Regulation to protect public interest
To avoid these problems, it’s fundamental to have clear regulation and policies that guide the development and use of these technologies. This includes:
Transparency: Companies should be clear about how their algorithms work and what data is being collected. Accountability: There should be mechanisms that hold accountable those who use technology harmfully. Public Participation: Society should participate in discussions about how technology is implemented, ensuring that people’s interests come first.
How is AI regulation developing in some countries?
The EU is one of the most advanced regions in developing AI regulations. In April 2021, the European Commission proposed the “Artificial Intelligence Act,” which aims to regulate AI use based on risk levels (low, medium, and high).
In the USA, there’s still no comprehensive federal regulation for AI, but some initiatives are underway. Individual states, like California, and federal agencies, like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), are monitoring and regulating AI use in specific sectors, such as consumer protection and data privacy. Additionally, the “Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights,” launched by the White House in 2022, provides guidelines on protecting citizens’ rights in AI use.
China is also advanced in terms of AI regulation. The Chinese government has a clear focus on being a global AI leader by 2030 and has already developed guidelines on AI ethics. China’s Cyberspace Administration (CAC) has issued rules regulating algorithms used by technology platforms, requiring transparency in AI use, especially in areas like content recommendation and advertising.
Brazil is already discussing and developing guidelines and regulations for AI. In 2021, the country published its Brazilian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which defines guidelines for responsible AI development and use in Brazil. Additionally, AI regulation bills are being processed in Congress. One of the most important is PL 21/2020, which creates a legal framework for AI in Brazil, establishing principles, rights, and duties for AI use in the country, inspired by international legislation like that of the European Union.
Final reflections
How can we ensure that technology is used to promote equality and not inequality? What role should governments and institutions play in regulating AI and algorithms? How can we inform ourselves and actively participate in these discussions?
Is the future in our hands?
Algorithms and artificial intelligence will continue to evolve and integrate even more into our lives. It’s fundamental that we be aware of this and participate in discussions about how these technologies should be used.
Algorithms are powerful tools that, when used responsibly, can bring enormous benefits to society. But it’s essential that each of us stays alert and asks questions. After all, technology should serve people, not the other way around.
So, next time you open an app or do an online search, remember: behind that apparent simplicity, there are algorithms working intensively. And it’s up to us to decide how we want them to influence our lives.
Note: The text of this newsletter was developed as collaborative work with gradual refinement, using ChatGPT 4.0 resources and its new version o1-preview.
Alexandre Korowajczuk is Project Engineer at CelPlan Technologies working with Project Planning and Management Consulting
