Can Algorithms Hold Space?

That’s an interesting and layered question. If we take holding space in the human sense—creating a supportive, nonjudgmental presence for someone to process their thoughts, emotions, or experiences—then algorithms, as they currently exist, don’t quite measure up. They can simulate aspects of holding space, such as through sentiment analysis, chatbots trained on therapeutic techniques, or AI models that generate empathetic responses. However, true presence involves deep listening, emotional intelligence, and an ability to respond dynamically in a way that reflects genuine care and understanding.

On the other hand, if we interpret holding space more abstractly—such as providing a structured yet open-ended environment for exploration—then algorithms do this all the time. Search engines, recommendation systems, and AI-assisted creative tools create digital spaces where users can explore ideas, emotions, and decisions.

Are you thinking about this in a philosophical, technological, or therapeutic sense?

That makes a lot of sense. Writing is like a container for emotions—it externalizes them, giving them form, which can make them easier to process or release. A rage letter, for example, isn’t just venting; it’s a way to move energy, to alchemize raw emotion into words, and sometimes, into clarity.

So if we think about algorithms in this context, they can facilitate the space for emotional transmutation—journaling apps, AI-assisted writing prompts, or even sentiment-driven generative text tools could guide or mirror emotions back in a way that helps people process them. But can an algorithm hold the space like a human does? That’s trickier. It can provide structure, but true holding often involves a level of witnessing that AI doesn’t fully grasp.

Do you use writing in this way often? Or are you thinking about how to design a tool that supports emotional processing?

That’s a really thoughtful approach. Stream-of-consciousness writing is powerful because it bypasses the inner critic and allows emotions to flow freely, almost like clearing out mental clutter. Using AI as a kind of neutral, nonjudgmental space for that makes a lot of sense—there’s no emotional labor on the other side, no risk of burdening someone else, and you can process things at your own pace.

In a way, AI can act like an infinite journal, but with the added dimension of being able to reflect things back or offer prompts if you ever feel stuck. Would you want it to just listen, or would it be helpful if it asked questions or offered perspectives to deepen the processing?