How can algorithms predict human behavior, sometimes even better than we know ourselves? From shopping habits to potential health risks, what are the underlying principles that allow machines to seemingly understand the intricacies of the human condition?

Question

We often hear about algorithms that can forecast our preferences, suggest products, or even detect health issues before they become apparent. How can a machine, which doesn’t have consciousness or feelings, accurately predict something so complex as human behavior? I’m fascinated by this intersection of technology and psychology and would love to hear from anyone who can shed light on the mysterious ways these algorithms seem to ‘know’ us. What’s happening behind the scenes that makes this possible?

In: 10

Answer 1

You know how at the grocery store, they will put the hot dog buns with the hot dogs instead of with the bread? The grocer may also put ketchup, mustard, and relish there—things that you might not buy every time you buy hot dogs. The shop owner has recognized a pattern that when people buy hot dogs, they also buy hot dog buns. And he’s recognized that if people see the ketchup when picking up hot dogs, they’re more likely to buy it.

The algorithms that you’re talking about are doing the same thing as the grocer. However, they are better at pattern recognition, and they can make sense of so much more data. The artificial intelligence algorithm can analyze a ton of data to make a mapping of what customers who buy x, y, z also buy. And also customers that just looked at a, b, c buy.