The Human Algorithm vs. The Jesus Algorithm
In this world of computer technology and artificial intelligence, you have most likely heard of the word “algorithm.” An algorithm is defined as a set of rules or step-by-step procedure used to solve a problem or perform a computation, especially by a computer. It is a process that involves a sequence of actions or operations that lead to a desired outcome. Computer programmers have designed algorithms for social media platforms as well as a whole host of other applications in order to persuade individuals to devote large amounts of their time on those platforms or apps. When data can show how many viewers, views or “hits” a platform is getting, then this data attracts advertisers and investors to pour money into that platform. Thus, the more views something gets, the more popular and possibly richer someone gets. The underlying principle is that the algorithm is set up to feed you what you like and are interested in.
An example of this would be if your politics lean toward the right, and you are more conservative than liberal, then most of the things that you view or “click on” are going to enhance conservative, right wing thoughts. Not only does this happen, but a lot of things that you view “belittle” or “demean” the view of those that differ from yours. Because of the way the algorithm is set up, it is easy to be influenced in seeing only your views and not recognizing others’ views or considering others (Proverbs 14:12).
It would seem to me that we have a culture that is becoming more divided, more cruel and more unloving than ever before. The human algorithm encourages people to become more selfish and self-centered because it glorifies the individual to get more views, to enhance their rights, and individuals want to be served instead of wanting to serve others (2 Timothy 3:1-4). One can easily have their attitudes, opinions and belief systems influenced by what they are watching on their phones, TVs, computers or tablets. All of these devices run programs or apps that are programmed with algorithms that will encourage you to keep your eyes on them thus influencing you because your beliefs continue to be fed by what you think is right and fair. At the same time, these programs and apps are influencing you to think the way they want you to think. It would seem that the underlying motivation is to make more money from advertisers and investors because their data shows they get more views. Your belief system is really not their concern.
How about using this concept of algorithms to influence for good? How about the underlying motivation be about serving one another instead of getting richer? The New Testament is the Jesus algorithm. It is a standard of rules (commandments), processes & procedures (examples and necessary inferences) on how one should conduct their life and what they should believe (faith). These principles include “seeking and saving the lost,” “joining together for the common cause of the greater good for all” and “serving one another instead of serving self” (Luke 19:10; Mark 10:45; 2 Peter 3:9)? Of course this is not going to be easy because Satan is real and he is not just going to sit there and let this happen. He would use people’s selfishness, need for popularity and power and the wanting of money to try and derail this whole idea.
The major shift in order to make this happen is how to get people to devote their time to viewing things that enhance doing good, service of others and concentrating on things above in their everyday life (Col. 3:2-3). This all boils down to a conscious choice with each individual, “What am I going to spend my time and energy on?” Will you continue to scroll social media, watch TV and be influenced by individuals who have a “materialistic” agenda, or will you devote your time and energy on things above like service of others, doing good for others and glorifying God? You have control over how you are being influenced and how you believe. Choose Jesus and not the world.
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