Ideas worth spreading

How algorithms shape our world

4,322,356 views | Kevin Slavin • TEDGlobal 2011

We live in a world run by algorithms, computer programs that make decisions or solve problems for us. In this riveting, funny talk, Kevin Slavin shows how modern algorithms determine stock prices, espionage tactics, even the movies you watch. But, he asks: If we depend on complex algorithms to manage our daily decisions -- when do we start to lose control?

We live in a world run by algorithms, computer programs that make decisions or solve problems for us. In this riveting, funny talk, Kevin Slavin shows how modern algorithms determine stock prices, espionage tactics, even the movies you watch. But, he asks: If we depend on complex algorithms to manage our daily decisions -- when do we start to lose control?

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

About the speaker

Kevin Slavin

Algoworld expert

See speaker profile

Kevin Slavin navigates in the algoworld, the expanding space in our lives that’s determined and run by algorithms.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.