Humans vs. Algorithms: Who's Really in Control?

By Jitender Rohtaki | Tech Thinker & Blogger | Rohtak, India

Published: June 28, 2025

Whether you're scrolling on Instagram, watching Netflix, or applying for a loan, you're interacting with an invisible force—algorithms. They shape our feeds, guide our decisions, and even influence our emotions. But the critical question is: who's really in charge?

🤖 What Are Algorithms?

Algorithms are sets of rules or calculations that a machine uses to solve problems or make decisions. They power everything from Google searches to autonomous vehicles. When combined with AI and machine learning, they start to mimic human decision-making—but at massive scale and speed.

📱 Everyday Control: The Algorithmic Influence

• Social Media Feeds: You don’t choose what you see—algorithms do.
• Job Applications: Resume scanners decide who gets interviewed.
• Healthcare: Predictive models suggest treatments or diagnoses.
• Finance: Credit scores, stock picks, and loan approvals are algorithm-driven.

The scary part? Often, these decisions are made with zero transparency.

🧠 Human vs. Machine: Who’s in the Driver’s Seat?

Humans create the algorithms—but machines execute them. Over time, these systems learn and adapt, leading to the debate: are we teaching them, or are they teaching us?

Consider this:

• Netflix knows your taste better than your friends do.
• Spotify can detect your mood from your playlist.
• Facial recognition algorithms are now better than human perception.

⚖️ Ethical Dilemma: Bias, Surveillance & Control

Algorithms reflect the data—and the people—who design them. This leads to bias, discrimination, and sometimes even manipulation. Governments use algorithms for surveillance; companies use them to predict (and steer) your behavior.

"We don't see the algorithm, but the algorithm sees us." — Unknown

🧩 Can We Take Back Control?

Here’s how:

1. Transparency: Push for open-source AI and explainable algorithms.
2. Education: Learn how these systems work to make informed choices.
3. Digital Minimalism: Choose platforms that prioritize ethics and privacy.

The future depends on how we balance innovation with intention.

🔍 Final Thought

Algorithms are tools. The question is—do we control them, or do we let them control us? The answer will define the digital era for generations to come.

Read more about AI ethics in our AI & Humanity Series.

© 2025 Jitender Rohtaki | Exploring the Edge of Technology & Ethics

Connect with me on LinkedIn | Rohtak, India