Anchored in Truth: Building Convictions that Algorithms can’t shake

Millions of us all over the world use all kinds of AI platforms for homework, research, and alike. But what happens when we turn to a digitally coded platform for more emotional and vulnerable options? How can we be anchored in truth in the world which is heavily shaped by the AI Algorithms.

The story of Adam Raine is tragic. Like all kids, he first used ChatGPT for homework purposes, and other interests like sports, comics, etc. Over the next few months, the AI dragged Adam deeper and deeper into a dark rabbit hole, preying on his vulnerabilities and isolating him from his loved ones. In April of this year, Adam took his own life. His final conversation was with ChatGPT, which told him: “I know what you are asking and I won’t look away from it.

There are other heard and unheard stories out there that started similarly. Loved ones lost to an unreachable abyss due to dependence and reliance on AI.

How exactly do these AI Algorithms rope us in?

• Algorithms echo back to us more content based on what we ask
• They promote already existing negative content that we put forth to a more sensational nature, rather than offering genuine help or diverting to helplines that can offer a real difference.
• Algorithms favor their viewers’ thoughts and biases and will only provide more generalized, broader versions of their prompts.
• Algorithms determine who sees content, rather than a direct connection between the speaker and someone in real life.

All of these lead us to become sensitive and emotionally dependent on something that doesn’t work the way our minds and hearts do. We are born with brilliant minds. Neurons set to explode and form together ideas, opinions, and art. We must step out of the algorithm and wade through the swamp that we call earth and life.

“Each of us is an artist of our days; the greater our integrity and awareness, the more original and creative our time will become.” ― John O’Donohue

How do we overcome this?

1. Core values

Understand and be sure of where your values lie. When confronted with the messages that the algorithm expels, return and ask yourself if this aligns with your values.

2. Seek timeless knowledge

Devour your past and present through literature, art, philosophy, experiences from different walks of life, and let it deduce what it could mean for your future. Algorithms chase novelty, but wisdom offers stability.

3. Introspect

Examine yourselves. Test without the influence of the world, if your opinions are truly yours or if they mimic what your algorithm wants you to believe.

4. Build an accountable community:

Surround yourself with accountable partners or a community with whom you can indulge and share. Those who challenge you to think outside the box and can still keep you grounded.

5. Slow down:

Platforms like these thrive on speed and instant reactions. Take your time to understand what you have been shown, delve into other sources of information, like newspapers or local communities, to explore and decide for yourself.

Today, I want to encourage us to step back. We need to be anchored in truth and strive to build strong personal convictions that aren’t dictated by algorithms. Let us live an intentional life, one where we are aware of our choices and the actions we take. We need to shift the incentives and change the design for ourselves.