Die Macht der Algorithmen

A talk at the University of Zurich entitled «Die Macht der Algorithmen» looks at how recommendation algorithms influence us. It is organised through the Volkshochschule Zürich, as indicated by the course link given. Using an SRF experiment, it shows how the algorithms of platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube operate as inscrutable black boxes that shape opinions, amplify emotions and can pull people into radical online worlds within minutes. The talk also explains how platforms monetise attention and what can be done about it.