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So I may be getting a little out of my depth here but....
An algorithm is a (usually iterative) rule or set of rules which generates an output from an input.
Who decides what rules the computer should follow? I think this is us and that is the decision I refer to. At some point somewhere a human has programmed something into the computer that could, theoretically, result in the loss of life or the choice of one life over another. (?)
dst2
Oliver Schick
Categories.
An algorithm is a (usually iterative) rule or set of rules which generates an output from an input. When we make decisions, we do not necessarily follow rules. We can do that (after all, we invented algorithms :) ), but we're always free to decide otherwise. (We don't even necessarily need an input (a priori reasoning).)
Cutting to the chase, it all revolves around whether we have free will. Decisions are subject to free will, which machines categorically cannot have.
Needless to say, it's a rather complex philosophical topic with a long history.