Savouring the nostalgic ambience of a quaint café, my old coursemate and I were in our world. Surrounding patrons were locked in a digital daze, swiping left and right through social media feeds, seeming to have forgotten the value of true conversation.

I was suddenly reminded of my previous employer who believed in the need for policies, more Machiavellian than managerial. His policies were nothing more than tools of power, employed to keep his minions in line. It was more of his whim that hinges on his mood that ended up being the company’s algorithm—any attempt to cite the policies in his presence used to be met with disdain and condescension.

His actions were a stark reminder of Plato's famous adage that the measure of a man is what he does with power. Unfortunately, this CEO appeared to be using his power for all the wrong reasons, leaving his staff demoralized and dispirited.

Ultimately, his disregard for policies clearly violated Aristotle's belief that "the rule of law is better than the rule of any individual". It was a sad reminder that unchecked power can be dangerous as true leadership requires a dedication to policies that serve the common good rather than the whims of a self-serving few.

My friend was hung up on my use of the word "algorithm," wondering what on earth that had to do with anything.

I tried to explain that our lives are guided by algorithms, from official laws to social norms. It was like watching a light bulb flicker to life in my friend's head, as he realized how the most abstract concepts are woven into everyday existence.

Algorithms have always been part of our lives. It could manifest through a sequence of instructions that controls and manipulates data to achieve a desired outcome. It is a creation that has the power to make or break fortunes, control markets and influences minds. Some might even say that algorithms are the modern-day equivalent of puppet masters, pulling the strings of our digital lives.

When compared to the puppet masters of days past, it is clear that algorithms have taken control to a whole new level. While puppet masters could only manipulate their marionettes' actions, algorithms can manipulate entire populations with a few clicks of a button. Instead of hiding behind a curtain, algorithms are hidden within our devices, constantly collecting data and shaping our behaviour without us even realizing it.

An algorithm is compared to a double-edged sword of progress and oppression. It may offer great benefits, but we must always know its power over our lives.

One might marvel at the sheer cleverness of these intricate systems, praising their ability to automate mundane tasks and revolutionize how we live. On the other hand, they might be a threat to our individuality and freedom, lamenting the fact that we have become so reliant on these soulless machines to guide us through life.

We risk losing our autonomy and agency if we blindly follow the algorithms that control us. We must use them wisely and responsibly than become puppets in the hands of unseen masters.

As we delved deeper into the concept with my friend, the name of our notorious emeritus professor crept up. This intellectual behemoth expected nothing short of academic excellence from his students. His classes were mental marathons that pushed our cognitive limits beyond measure.