Do Algorithms Really Help Individuals?

Do Algorithms Really Help Individuals?

In simple terms, ‘No’.

Algorithms or artificial intelligence (AI), whatever we choose to call them, are primarily designed to help businesses and large corporations, not individuals. The data points that these systems rely on are set up to help companies make money, not to help us earn or save it.

How It Works:

Imagine that an algorithm randomly selects one individual and connects their data points, such as location, habits, interests, and online activity, with those of people around them: family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Whatever that person does, the algorithm tracks and uses as a signal to influence others in their network.

If that individual visits a restaurant, travels somewhere, or buys something, others connected through these data points might start receiving subtle notifications or targeted content, through social media, emails, or apps, encouraging them to do the same.

As a result, people are nudged or even manipulated into spending money, not because they truly want to, but because the algorithm is pushing them to follow someone else’s pattern. When one person works, shops, eats out, or travels, others are algorithmically encouraged to do the same, all for the benefit of businesses looking to increase their revenue.

The Psychological Game:

These systems play with human behavior and psychology. They make us believe we’re making independent decisions, when in fact we’re being guided toward spending more on food, shopping, entertainment, or even small daily actions like fueling a car or paying for public transport.

And the most concerning part? This often happens without consent. The person whose behavior is being mirrored might have no idea their actions are influencing others, and those being influenced rarely realize that it’s not coincidence, it’s the algorithm’s design.

What You Can Do:

If you receive notifications or messages encouraging you to go somewhere, buy something, or take an action, pause for a moment. 

Ask yourself:

• Do I really want to do this?

• Am I spending because I need or want to or because I was prompted to?

Remember: It’s your money and your choice. Don’t let algorithms decide how you live your life or how you spend your income. Be aware of these subtle influences and make conscious decisions.

If you genuinely want to spend on travel, dining, entertainment, personal projects, or investment project, go for it. Enjoy it fully. But don’t let yourself be pushed into spending by unseen digital forces designed to profit from your behavior.

I don't follow anyone in particular. I simply choose to do what I enjoy, such as dine out, travelling if possible, some adventurous activities, sometimes go out for a walk to get fresh air and have a drink within the limits of my financial means and physical ability.

Yes, sometimes we do need to rely on algorithms, like when we’re watching a movie or video on platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Facebook, and others. Whatever appears on our home feed or screen, we often just click and start watching. And that’s perfectly fine. We don’t always want to search for something specific; sometimes it's easier to go with what’s right in front of us. But when it comes to spending your money, that’s a completely different matter. Don’t let the algorithm decide how you spend.

If you’re not someone who enjoys dining out or renovating your house, that’s okay. You don’t have to. But don’t let the algorithm influence you into thinking you should, just because someone else is doing it or because it's showing up repeatedly in your feed.

Here’s a simple trick to get algorithmic attention without spending money: follow the people and places an influencer links to, and visit the same public spots, shops, cafés, restaurants, or parks but don’t feel obliged to buy anything. You’ll still register on the platform’s radar without giving away your money.

I am unable to provide any information if the data points relate to recruitment, salaries, product pricing, immigration, or any other matters linked to my own or others’ activities. I genuinely do not understand why such unrelated factors have been associated with me, as they bear no connection to my circumstances.

Over the past ten years, I have made sincere efforts to find a suitable and well-paid role, but unfortunately, I have not been successful. As a result, I have decided to step away from the process of job searching or applying for roles. Instead, I wish to focus my time on activities that I truly enjoy and find fulfilling.

It also appears that the design or implementation of this system may have occurred without my knowledge or consent or that of others involved, which raises further concerns for me.

Unfortunately, it seems that those behind it have exploited the situation for financial gain, causing serious harm to many individuals, including irreparable damage to careers, personal relationships, and mental well-being. I have personally suffered years of mental and financial distress as a result.

Despite my requests for appropriate compensation, no responsible party has come forward. It is disheartening to see such disregard for human lives and dignity, all for selfish financial interests. No one should be subjected to this kind of exploitation or harm without accountability.

So, going forward, don’t feel the need to follow me everywhere I go just because the algorithm suggests it. Don’t waste your money or time trying to keep up with what I (or anyone else) might be doing, unless it’s something you genuinely enjoy or want to do. Your time and money are yours. Spend them on what truly matters to you, not what an algorithm nudges you toward. Smart and clever people do not influence by the algorithm. 

After all, algorithms are built to help businesses, not you and it’s up to you to break free from that invisible influence.