It would take an incredible number of people to filter the sites on the web, in an effort to determine the ones of supreme relevance. Likewise for the descending order of importance.

Algorithms (a.k.a. algorythms ), are computational or mathematical parameters, which strive to achieve the broader intelligence of a competent human editor............ only multiplied, in terms of scale.

Software trying to find a result, as a general searcher may like it, if you will.

Most of us agree, that the search engines do a fine job, given the task that they undertake!

So, do we all need to understand the algos? Absolutely not, unless you're in that field, or choose a path to insanity in a bid towards enlightment.

Its no harm though, to become familiar with a few of them.