Algorithms
Software systems used by platforms like TikTok and YouTube to curate and recommend content to users. Their role is being legally debated, with some courts considering them a form of editorial judgment not protected by Section 230.
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8/22/2025, 1:48:59 AM
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8/22/2025, 1:50:41 AM
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8/22/2025, 1:50:41 AM
Summary
Algorithms are fundamental to computer science and mathematics, defined as finite sequences of rigorous instructions designed to solve specific problems or perform computations. They are crucial for automated decision-making and data processing, capable of incorporating conditional logic and even random input in the case of randomized algorithms. Recently, algorithms have become central to legal discussions, notably in a court ruling that TikTok's algorithms are not protected by Section 230 immunity in a lawsuit related to the 'Blackout Challenge.' This ruling suggests that algorithmic content curation may be viewed as editorial judgment, potentially altering platform liability for user-generated content.
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Research Data
Extracted Attributes
Types
Deterministic and randomized algorithms (incorporate random input).
Definition
A finite sequence of mathematically rigorous instructions.
Distinction
Different from heuristics, which solve problems without well-defined correct or optimal results.
Applications
Computer programming, machine learning, data storage, sorting, processing, data mining, pattern recognition, automated reasoning, risk assessments, anticipatory policing.
Functionality
Specifications for performing calculations, data processing, automated decision-making, and reasoning.
Field of Study
Mathematics and Computer Science.
Primary Purpose
To solve specific problems or perform computations.
Execution Method
Can be executed manually by people or automatically by machines.
Key Characteristic
Can use conditionals to divert code execution through various routes.
Timeline
- A court ruled that TikTok's algorithms are not protected by Section 230 immunity in a lawsuit concerning a child's death from the 'Blackout Challenge.' This ruling suggests that algorithmic content curation may be considered editorial judgment, potentially shifting platform liability. (Source: Document 93a717cd-5aaf-4e60-bcdc-e392cd9290cd)
Undated (recent)
Wikipedia
View on WikipediaAlgorithm
In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm ( ) is a finite sequence of mathematically rigorous instructions, typically used to solve a class of specific problems or to perform a computation. Algorithms are used as specifications for performing calculations and data processing. More advanced algorithms can use conditionals to divert the code execution through various routes (referred to as automated decision-making) and deduce valid inferences (referred to as automated reasoning). In contrast, a heuristic is an approach to solving problems without well-defined correct or optimal results. For example, although social media recommender systems are commonly called "algorithms", they actually rely on heuristics as there is no truly "correct" recommendation. As an effective method, an algorithm can be expressed within a finite amount of space and time and in a well-defined formal language for calculating a function. Starting from an initial state and initial input (perhaps empty), the instructions describe a computation that, when executed, proceeds through a finite number of well-defined successive states, eventually producing "output" and terminating at a final ending state. The transition from one state to the next is not necessarily deterministic; some algorithms, known as randomized algorithms, incorporate random input.
Web Search Results
- Algorithm - Wikipedia
In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm (/ˈælɡərɪðəm/ ⓘ) is a finite sequence of mathematically rigorous instructions, typically used to solve a class of specific problems or to perform a computation. Algorithms are used as specifications for performing calculations and data processing. More advanced algorithms can use conditionals "Conditional (computer programming)") to divert the code execution through various routes (referred to as automated decision-making) and deduce valid [...] The analysis, and study of algorithms is a discipline of computer science. Algorithms are often studied abstractly, without referencing any specific programming language or implementation. Algorithm analysis resembles other mathematical disciplines as it focuses on the algorithm's properties, not implementation. Pseudocode is typical for analysis as it is a simple and general representation. Most algorithms are implemented on particular hardware/software platforms and their algorithmic [...] One informal definition is "a set of rules that precisely defines a sequence of operations", which would include all computer programs (including programs that do not perform numeric calculations), and any prescribed bureaucratic procedure
- Algorithm | NNLM
An algorithm is a set of instructions that is designed to accomplish a task. Algorithms usually take one or more inputs, run them systematically through a series of steps, and provide one or more outputs. Algorithms are typically associated with computing and are an essential element of computer programming. Algorithms can be used to accomplish a variety of computational tasks, such as performing calculations or finding information in databases. [...] Algorithms can be created and used outside of computer programming as well. They can be executed manually by people or executed automatically by machines: consider performing long division manually on paper versus using a calculator to do the same operation. Users do not need to understand the inner workings of algorithms in order to use them. In fact, many algorithms used by companies are closely guarded secrets, blocking users from seeing exactly how they work. Examples
- List of algorithms - Wikipedia
Broadly, algorithms define process(es), sets of rules, or methodologies that are to be followed in calculations, data processing, data mining, pattern recognition, automated reasoning or other problem-solving operations. With the increasing automation of services, more and more decisions are being made by algorithms. Some general examples are; risk assessments, anticipatory policing, and pattern recognition technology.(
- What is an Algorithm? Definition, Types, Implementation | DataCamp
Algorithms are structured sets of instructions designed to solve specific problems or perform particular tasks. They function through a series of well-defined steps, each contributing to the ultimate goal. Here, we break down the typical stages involved in the functioning of an algorithm: [...] An algorithm is a set of defined steps designed to perform a specific objective. This can be a simple process, such as a recipe to bake a cake, or a complex series of operations used in machine learning to analyze large datasets and make predictions. In the context of machine learning, algorithms are vital as they facilitate the learning process for machines, helping them to identify patterns and make decisions based on data. ## Algorithms Explained [...] Algorithms are the heart of machine learning because they enable computers to learn from data, identify patterns, and make decisions or predictions. They are the set of rules and instructions that define how a machine learns and adapts. ### Can I create my own algorithm?
- Algorithm & computer science: definition and understanding
Algorithms are used to find the best possible way to solve a problem, based on data storage, sorting and processing, and machine learning. In doing so, they improve the efficiency of a program. Algorithms are used in all areas of computing. Because it is a fantastic way of automating computer decisions. [...] In computer science, an algorithm is associated with information processing. Data can be read from an input source, written to an output device, and stored for further processing. The stored data is considered part of the internal state of the entity executing the algorithm. In practice, the state is stored in one or more data structures. [...] Algorithms are more than just programming, they are specifications for performing calculations, data processing, automated reasoning or decision making for example (non-exhaustive list). To this extent, it is necessary to understand what it means for an algorithm to be correct, and to accurately solve the problem at hand. Here are 8 critical steps in the development of an efficient algorithm
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Inception Date
1/1/2008
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Brayn Cossty Algorithms, Onyaa Kwashie Street, Akweteyman, Achimota, Accra, Okaikwei North Municipal District, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Coordinates: 5.6123486, -0.2431227
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