When Google's algorithms work like they're supposed to — when they show you the bit of information you're looking for and not nonsense or weird porn or propaganda or dangerous medical advice — you have people like Ed Stackhouse to thank.
Stackhouse is what Google calls a "rater." When its search engine is unsure about the results it's produced for a given search, Stackhouse's job is to decide which one people should see.
This can be a time-consuming and research-intensive process. It can also be harrowing, a window into the darkest corners of the human experience. "The one I've been seeing the most lately are the suicide forums," he said. "'What's the best method to hang myself if I'm 5'9"?' 'What length rope should I use?' "
