The article widely discusses how algorithms are used in day to day life and how they help society, however, mentions the possible implications of using algorithms. It implies that the use of algorithms could harm people's lives due to the possible predictions based on data. This has some validity as statistical data cannot represent a whole population or social group as there will always be outliers and those who do not follow the trend. Which means that statistical correlations or patterns cannot equal causation, as mentioned in the article. However, the harm of algorithms is based on the idea of action caused by predictions.
Memphis's Operation Blue Crush expresses an efficient method of using algorithms avoiding the implications. They are not identifying possible crimes of people beforehand and acting on their statistical results. Instead, they use algorithms to predict crime hot spots and ensure the presence of the "right people". This prevents any unfair arrests due to a false prediction, it just implements necessary precautions in an attempt to reduce crime rates.
Mathematics, including algorithms, present the purest form of investigation and methodology, especially when compared to the human sciences and natural sciences. The application of investigation is where the soundness of the results become less sound or even interpretational as the data's results cannot fully predict the future purely through statistical correlation and analysis. Human behaviour and action are extremely unpredictable if you could measure or even predict the human psyche in a numerical form and found the value in which serial killers commonly express. Society still cannot act on that prediction as the numerical form or measurement may predict future harm of others, however, the act has not taken place yet which destabilises the law and moral system many are accustomed to. It is non-sensical to completely act on a prediction in a way which could dramatically impact someone's life as mentioned in the article. This presents the extent in which we rely on algorithms and the extent we act on them. From my understanding of the Blue Crush system, it does not predict the exact crime or even the person, it is not accurate or complex enough for that, but calculates the hotspots for crime allowing for employment in those areas. The method prevents too much involvement to influence individuals or society but apprehends those committing crimes.
Using algorithms this way, society must become aware of relying on it too much as they can work both ways. Criminals have the ability to use algorithms parallel to the police force which may contradict their movements. Algorithms can't predict everything and may miss large spontaneous events which could be heightened by police forces being focused on other locations. \
A mentioned in the article there is a number of social problems that are present like security or privacy which can be explored in the future.
