Prospectus and limitations of algorithmic governance: an ecological evaluation of algorithmic trends
| Pages | 369-383 |
| Date | 10 June 2019 |
| Published date | 10 June 2019 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/DPRG-03-2019-0017 |
| Author | Donghee (Don) Shin,Anestis Fotiadis,Hongsik Yu |
| Subject Matter | Information & knowledge management,Information management & governance,Information policy |
Prospectus and limitations of algorithmic
governance: an ecological evaluation of
algorithmic trends
Donghee (Don) Shin, Anestis Fotiadis and Hongsik Yu
Abstract
Purpose –The purpose of this study is to offer a roadmap for work on the ethical and societal
implicationsof algorithms and AI. Based on an analysis of the social,technical and regulatory challenges
posed by algorithmic systems in Korea, this work conducts socioecological evaluations of the
governanceof algorithmic transparency and accountability.
Design/methodology/approach –This paper analyzesalgorithm design and development from critical
socioecological angles: social, technological, cultural and industrial phenomena that represent the
strategic interaction among people, technology and society, touching on sensitive issues of a legal, a
culturaland an ethical nature.
Findings –Algorithm technologies are a part of a social ecosystem, and its development should be
based on user interests and rights within a social and cultural milieu. An algorithm represents an
interrelated,multilayered ecosystemof networks, protocols, applications,services, practices and users.
Practical implications –Value-sensitive algorithm design is proposed as a novel approach for
designing algorithms.As algorithms have become a constitutive technologythat shapes human life, it is
essential to be aware of thevalue-ladenness of algorithm development. Humanvalues and social issues
can be reflectedin an algorithm design.
Originality/value –The arguments in this study help ensure the legitimacy and effectiveness of
algorithms. This study provides insight into the challenges and opportunities of algorithms through the
lens of a socioecological analysis: political discourse, social dynamics and technological choices
inherentin the development of algorithm-based ecology.
Keywords Algorithm policy, Algorithm-based society, Socio-technical algorithms,
Value-sensitive algorithm design, Algorithmic governance, Socio ecological algorithms
Paper type Viewpoint
1. Introduction
Algorithms have become primary processes that direct our everyday lives. Algorithm-
based services have been growing rapidly (Burrell, 2016), and Korea is no exception to
the trend. Algorithms are so pervasive in Korean society that they track, predict and
influence how people behave in almost all aspects of life. The world is evolving toward a
place where algorithms are responsible for an increasing number of consequential
decisions in our lives. Driven by vast troves of data, algorithms are the new power
brokers in society (Shin, 2019).
Algorithms are undisputedly convenient and highly useful tools for accompli shing tasks;
however, the application of algorithms created with good intentions occasio nally leads to
unintended consequences. Algorithms can put too much control in the hands of government s
and industries, and they can perpetuate bias and create filter bubb les; further, they cut
choices, creativity and serendipity and could result in greater social unrest. In Korea, for
Donghee (Don) Shin and
Anestis Fotiadis are both
based at the College of
Communication and Media
Sciences, Zayed
University - Abu Dhabi
Campus, Abu Dhabi,
United Arab Emirates.
Hongsik Yu is based at
School of Media
Communication,
Chung-Ang University,
Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Received 15 March 2019
Revised 24 April 2019
Accepted 24 April 2019
DOI 10.1108/DPRG-03-2019-0017 VOL. 21 NO. 4 2019, pp. 369-383, ©Emerald Publishing Limited, ISSN 2398-5038 jDIGITAL POLICY, REGULATION AND GOVERNANCE jPAGE 369
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