Computer says no

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/computer-says-no

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the underlying principle?Algorithmic determinism where rigid programming overrides common sense and human discretion
2. What is the societal impact?Contributes to feelings of dehumanization, frustration, and a critique of bureaucratic inflexibility
3. What does the phrase "Computer says no" mean?It means a computer or automated system refuses to help or give a solution even when it seems reasonable. It shows how some computers follow strict rules that can be confusing.
4. Why do computers sometimes refuse to help people?Because they follow fixed rules written by people. These rules can be too strict and ignore special situations, so the computer says no even when a person needs help.

Algorithmic Determinism: The belief that outcomes are predetermined by the logic of computer algorithms.
Human Agency: The capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own free choices.
Bureaucratic Inflexibility: The inability of complex organizations to adapt or change procedures easily.
Context-Aware AI: Artificial intelligence systems that can understand and respond to the specific situation.