A team of British and American scientists has developed an algorithm that can determine a user’s essential character traits based on their Facebook likes. By sharing articles or commenting on statuses, Facebook users voluntarily provide their friends with insight into their personal interests and perspectives. Now, researchers from Stanford University and the University of Cambridge have developed an algorithm that can create a shockingly accurate character analysis of a user based solely on their Facebook likes. The research team had previously asked 86,000 people to fill out a questionnaire to record the most important character traits of each individual. These data served as a control for the later analysis of the Facebook likes of the test subjects. Only 100 to 150 Facebook likes are sufficient for the software algorithm to create a user’s essential character traits. The software is more accurate than acquaintances, friends, or even spouses who should know the user’s character well.
Youyou Wu, one of the study’s authors from the University of Cambridge, is surprised by the accuracy of the algorithm. In previous studies, she has dealt with the assessment and analysis of character traits, only to find that a computer software can do it much faster and more reliably. The software could be available to paying customers who could use it to screen applicants in advance, among other things. However, the software reveals much more. For example, it can find out which websites you have visited. For data protection advocates, the release of the software would be a disaster because very personal data could not only be made accessible to everyone but even published without the user’s knowledge.
In conclusion, the development of an algorithm that can determine a user’s essential character traits based on their Facebook likes is a significant breakthrough in the field of data analysis. The software’s accuracy is impressive, and it could have significant implications for businesses and individuals alike. However, the potential for misuse and the violation of privacy is a significant concern that must be addressed.
