Predictive Analytics

What often happens to you that cannot be witnessed, and that you can't be sure has happened afterward - but that can be predicted in advance? - Eric Seigel

While the use of predictive analytics has been found to be effective in the retail industry, could it also be used to persuade people without any witness or evidence of the occurrence? There is no doubt that predictive analytics can be used for good, but what if it was used for evil?

Imagine a world where we could use machine learning and predictive analytics to influence people's decisions without any evidence. We would be able to make them do whatever we want them to do, without them ever knowing. This may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, but it is actually possible. By using these tools, we can study people's behavior and tendencies in order to predict how they might react in certain situations. This information can then be used to influence their decisions in a way that benefits us.

The use of predictive analytics has already been proven effective in influencing consumer behavior. For example, by understanding how people are related to one another (Affinity analysis), retailers are able to better understand what products consumers are likely purchase together (Association analysis). This information can then be used by retailers to target a specific pool of consumers with related products strategically placed near each other in order increase sales.

So far, the use of predictive analytics has only been found beneficial for businesses and organizations; however, what if this technology was abused and used for nefarious purposes? Imagine being able not only know everything about someone's personal life, but also being able manipulate their thoughts and actions without them ever knowing! The possibilities are endless and quite frankly quite frightening!

We need to educate people about the risks associated with predictive analytics so they can make informed decisions about whether or not to use it themselves.