(countable) A collection of ordered steps that solve a mathematical problem. A precise step-by-step plan for a computational procedure that possibly begins with an input value and yields an output value in a finite number of steps.
1990, Cormen, Leiserson, and Rivest,Introduction to Algorithms: page 1. Cambridge, MA, The MIT Press, 1999 (23rd printing)
Informally, analgorithm is any well-defined computational procedure that takes some value, or set of values, as input and produces some value, or set of values, as output. Analgorithm is thus a sequence of computational steps that transform the input into the output.
The use ofalgorithms in policing is one example of their increasing influence on our lives. And, as their ubiquity spreads, so too does the debate around whether we should allow ourselves to become so reliant on them – and who, if anyone, is policing their use.
2018 June 25, Sam Jones, “Ex-Nato chief refused visa waiver to US because of Iran trips”, inThe Guardian:
It’s a computer – analgorithm – and if you’ve been in Iran lately, they take you out of the system.
2023, Lee SG, Blood AJ, Cannon CP, Gordon WJ, Nichols H, Zelle D, Scirica BM, Fisher NDL, “Remote cardiovascular hypertension program enhanced blood pressure control during the COVID-19 pandemic”, inJ Am Heart Assoc, volume12, number 6,→DOI,→PMID, pagee027296:
This retrospective observational analysis evaluated BP [blood pressure] control in an entirely remote management program before and during the pandemic. A team of pharmacists, nurse practitioners, physicians, and nonlicensed navigators used an evidence‐based clinicalalgorithm to optimize hypertensive treatment. Thealgorithm was adapted during the pandemic to simplify BP control.
(usually proceeded bydefinite article "the") software that makes content display determinations on a platform, in totality of effect upon allend users (within a potential audience).
2024 October 23,Ben Rhodes, “Trump Blames Zelensky for War, Sucks Up to Saudis” (23:52 from the start), inPod Save the World[3] (podcast):
… you and I probably didn't run across that inour algorithm, but that doesn't mean that a lot of people aren't gonna run across garbage like that intheir algorithms in the next couple weeks…
