Do people actually prefer having their decisions substituted with a machine or a computer running an algorithm?  Probably not, but there may not be a choice.

Algorithms have been used for hundreds of years, developed by ancient Egyptian and Babylonian civilizations.  Put simply, an algorithm is a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end.  Looking for everyday examples?  Following a recipe, tying your shoes, finding a book in the library– if it’s a process that can be defined and replicated by others, then it’s an algorithm!

Algorithms used in technological advances are a major source of efficiencies in business and regular life.  Think about a web search, your favorite social media platform, online shopping, auto-pilot, self-driving cars, seeing what movie, show, or song is ‘suggested’ next… all everyday functions that rely on computer algorithms.  Automated computer-based decision-making is being incorporated into more business processes than ever, especially in the quest for powerful artificial intelligence applications.

Is there a point where people prefer human decision-making over algorithms?

A recent University of Chicago Booth School of Business survey reveals that people believe a line should be drawn when the choices turn ‘morally relevant’- a decision that may “entail potential harm and/or the limitation of one or more persons’ resources, freedoms, or rights.”

Here is the Chicago Booth study.  Have a read and let me know your thoughts- click here to email me!

~ Brian Kasal- The Leadership Matrix

Click Here- Why We Don’t Want Algorithms to Make Moral Choices

P.S.- Did you see my last Leadership Matrix post? A Yuletide #1 on The Billboard Hot 100