This course will explore the ways in which novel data gathering methods are leveraged by algorithms to influence individual behavior, and how this impacts collectives. We will analyze historical trends in society’s data gathering ability and computational power. We will delve into the origins of modern algorithms and how they gave rise to machine learning and artificial intelligence. We will discuss the risks and opportunities of these developments, and how they are shaping how we work and conduct our private lives. The final portion of the course will explore the societal implications of these technologies.