Writes Isar S. (L6ths)
On Thursday 24th September, the Lower Sixth had the privilege of attending a lecture from an eloquent and experienced speaker – Harry Kemsley OBE. It was titled ‘You Are the Algorithm.’ He posed the question as to whether we influence the algorithm, or whether the algorithm influences us.
He used the idea of the social media algorithm – hooking one in based upon activity and content history. He stated how millions of adolescents and young people are drawn into this trap, which can consequently influence their personalities, behaviours and actions within daily life. He broadened this prospect to the wider issues of peer pressure and the innate desire to ‘fit in’. Through a variety of interactive questions, he encouraged us to reflect upon how much of our identity is truly our own and how much is shaped by the people and content that surround us.
Beyond the algorithm itself, Harry explored the profound influence that social media can have upon our mental health and sense of self. Whilst acknowledging its ability to connect, inform and inspire, he also highlighted the dangers of allowing online approval and comparison to dictate our self-worth. His message was not to reject social media, but to approach it with greater awareness and independence. This included recognising when we are being influenced, and to retain the confidence to remain grounded and ourselves regardless.
He ended the lecture with one simple message: to be independent, inquisitive and kind. Every person walked out of the lecture theatre with the lesson to never lose themselves or their morals simply to ‘fit in’. And so, a man with years of experience left us all empowered and fuelled with self-confidence to be good people.
