Supporting Progress Doesn't Equal Antagonizing Algorithms
In the realm of modern politics, the debate surrounding algorithms and their impact on social justice has taken centre stage. Progressive politicians, in particular, have expressed concerns about the potential risks posed by algorithms, but recent developments suggest that a more nuanced approach may be necessary.
Take, for instance, the case of Clear My Record, a tool used in California that allows attorneys to identify and proactively clear the records of eligible criminal offenders in mere minutes. This technological solution has already been instrumental in automating the clearing of thousands of cannabis-related criminal records, providing social and economic opportunities for thousands of Californians.
Similarly, the First Step Act, recent federal legislation aimed at reducing recidivism, has made algorithm-driven approaches to replace ankle monitors with virtual check-ins possible. Companies like OptimumID and Aware have developed solutions to supplement ankle monitors, reducing the stigma and cost associated with them.
However, it's important to note that the perspective that algorithms are inherently riskier to social justice is not supported by the evidence presented. In fact, algorithms can provide opportunities to increase fairness in society more broadly, as seen in the examples of loan discrimination.
In 2013, Ally Financial was found to have charged minority borrowers more for car loans than white borrowers, due to human workers offering minority customers higher interest rates than the rate recommended by the algorithm. This instance highlights the potential for algorithms to reflect and exhibit human bias, but also underscores the need for better algorithms to combat these issues.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez spoke at an event in January 2019, emphasizing the potential for algorithms to reflect and exhibit human bias. However, she also recognized the importance of pursuing the potential of better algorithms as a solution to algorithmic bias.
Progressives should recognize that avoiding algorithms does not reduce societal biases. On the contrary, the solution to algorithmic bias is not less algorithms, but better algorithms. By pursuing the potential of better algorithms, progressives can capitalize on the opportunities they present to eradicate biases more quickly than social justice activism alone.
In conclusion, while it's crucial to address the issues of algorithmic bias, it's equally important to recognize the potential for algorithms to provide opportunities to increase fairness in society more broadly. Progressive politicians should be aware that their perspective on algorithms as riskier to social justice undermines progressive values. Instead, they should embrace the potential of better algorithms as a means to advance social justice.
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