# Rethinking Our Relationship with Machine Learning Technology
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Chapter 1: The Dual Nature of Technology
Technology can evoke feelings of unease. Throughout history, advancements have often been accompanied by a sense of fear among people. When it comes to Machine Learning, the prospect of software making decisions for us can be particularly unsettling. For instance, platforms like Amazon suggest purchases, Netflix recommends films, and YouTube curates videos or music—all of which can lead to discomfort.
However, these recommendations are merely suggestions; the ultimate decision lies with us. A poignant observation captures this sentiment: "Netflix suggests a movie you might enjoy, but you remain unaware of it." This underscores a critical point: YOU REMAIN UNAWARE!
The crux of the matter may be that we, as humans, possess a desire to control every aspect of our lives, often manifesting as a control-freak mentality. We might fear that machines understand us better than we do ourselves, a realization that transcends even the challenges posed by global events like the pandemic.
Moreover, we often believe we are making independent and intelligent choices. However, this is not always the case. Consider this scenario: Last Friday, I visited a bakery in Italy, which offers an overwhelming array of bread types: salty, unsalted, whole grain, naturally leavened, and so forth.
What do I end up choosing? Typically, I select either a promotion or a familiar favorite. There are few other criteria guiding my decision.
This illustrates that I rarely venture beyond my established preferences (unless, on rare occasions, the baker makes a compelling recommendation—though they lack insight into my specific tastes, often offering the same advice to all customers). In many cases, my decision is influenced more by cost than by flavor.
Now, imagine if there were a system that could recommend a type of bread based on my preferences or the choices of similar customers. Would I be more inclined to explore new varieties, even if they cost a bit more? How about you? Would you trust software to guide your selections in such scenarios?
Conclusions
Ultimately, we must shift our perspective regarding technology; it is not our adversary but rather a tool. The key difference lies in how we utilize it and how we perceive its role. Software can provide us with suggestions for various types of bread, potentially introducing us to new favorites. However, the decision to embrace these recommendations rests entirely with us.
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Chapter 2: Video Insights on AI and Decision Making
In this first video, titled What We Get Wrong About AI (feat. former Google CEO), industry experts discuss common misconceptions surrounding artificial intelligence and how it influences our daily choices.
The second video, I Made a Game Where The Enemies Get Smarter, illustrates how adaptive AI can enhance user experience and decision-making in gaming, reflecting the broader implications of AI in our lives.