Meaning: The quote by Alice Cooper, a legendary musician known for his provocative and theatrical stage presence, touches upon the idea of modern-day scrutiny and judgment in the entertainment industry. Alice Cooper is referring to the process of how people, presumably audiences and critics, evaluate and decide whether they like or dislike a performance or an artistic creation. He uses the imagery of individuals being "picked out" and then subjected to a process of computerized decision-making, highlighting the mechanized and impersonal nature of contemporary judgment. Cooper also alludes to the uncertainty and indecisiveness that often accompanies these evaluations, suggesting that people may revisit their opinions because they are unsure of what they initially saw or experienced.

In this quote, Alice Cooper provides a glimpse into the complex and often perplexing world of art and entertainment. The process of evaluation and critique in the modern age has been greatly influenced by technology and digital platforms, which have revolutionized the way audiences engage with and respond to artistic works. With the proliferation of social media, online reviews, and instant feedback, the act of "picking out" and evaluating performances or creations has become more accessible, immediate, and widespread. However, this democratization of critique has also led to a fragmented and sometimes chaotic landscape where individuals are bombarded with diverse and often conflicting opinions about artistic endeavors.

The idea of "computerized" decision-making mentioned in the quote can be interpreted as a metaphor for the algorithmic nature of contemporary judgment. In the digital age, data-driven analyses, metrics, and algorithms play a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing the success or failure of artistic endeavors. Platforms and streaming services use algorithms to recommend content to users based on their preferences, creating a feedback loop that can both amplify and homogenize taste. This mechanized approach to decision-making raises questions about the authenticity and diversity of opinions in a world increasingly driven by data and analytics.

Moreover, Cooper's mention of individuals returning home and then coming back again because they are unsure of what they saw speaks to the subjective and often perplexing nature of artistic experiences. Art has the power to evoke complex and multifaceted responses, and individuals may find themselves revisiting their initial judgments as they grapple with the nuances and layers of a performance or creation. This process of reflection and reconsideration underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of artistic appreciation, highlighting the fact that opinions are not fixed but subject to change and reinterpretation over time.

In summary, Alice Cooper's quote offers a thought-provoking commentary on the contemporary landscape of artistic evaluation and critique. It underscores the impact of technology, the algorithmic nature of modern judgment, and the subjective, ever-evolving nature of artistic experiences. As audiences and creators navigate this complex terrain, they are challenged to consider the authenticity, diversity, and depth of their responses to the art and entertainment that shape our cultural landscape. Cooper's words serve as a reminder of the intricacies and uncertainties inherent in the process of evaluating and appreciating artistic works in the digital age.