The Challenges of Algorithmic Bias

Algorithms are everywhere. Chances are that before you got out of bed this morning an algorithm, running on your phone, was ready to offer the optimal route to the location that it determined – algorithmically – was your likely destination. Netflix, iTunes, and Amazon are using algorithms to recommend your media choices; Google is using an algorithm to rank your search results and shape your news feed. If you apply for a mortgage, an algorithm is determining your credit score; another algorithm is selecting the credit rate offer that you will receive in the mail for that new card you do not need but might apply for anyway – and when you receive that offer, rest assured that it is because an algorithm has already determined that this is the offer most likely to entice you to apply.

This content has been updated on 27 August 2020 at 9 h 40 min.