In this episode, we focus on algorithmic action and fairness.

Algorithms need not stop at providing insight or advice, some also can take automated action. These algorithms are designed to process data, make decisions, and execute actions without requiring human intervention at every step.

Beyond the uses of algorithms, we also need to address risks and fears. One risk is algorithmically enabled unfairness:

Once algorithms start shaping people's option spaces, the question of fairness emerges. Algorithms make, or at least support, decisions about people spanning various areas of their life: they assign people's credit ratings, they evaluate their job applications, they assess the likelihood of them engaging in criminal activity, or administer welfare benefits. These algorithmic assessments and decisions matter for the choices people have and the way they are treated by institutions of authority. This makes it important that algorithms are treating people fairly.

Script: http://digitalmedia.andreasjungherr.de/algorithms.html#algorithmic-action