Computer Ethics

Algorithms

Christopher L. Holland

Saint Louis University

October 29, 2024

What is an algorithm?

A mathematical construct

An algorithm is a finite, abstract, effective, compound control structure, imperatively given, accomplishing a given purpose under given provisions.

   — Hill (2016)

Algorithmic system

We often use the term algorithm in a broader sense.

Lay usage of ‘algorithm’ also includes implementation of the mathematical construct into a technology, and an application of the technology configured for a particular task.

   — Mittelstadt et al. (2016, 2)

Algorithmic system

Jack Bandy refer to this as an algorithmic system.

Algorithmic system: is any socio-technical system influenced by at least one algorithm. This includes systems that may rely on human judgement and/or other non-algorithmic components, as long as they include at least one algorithm.

   — Bandy (2021, sec. 3.1.2)

Ethics of Algorithms:
A Map

Six types of ethical concerns raised by algorithms (Mittelstadt et al. 2016, fig. 1)

Sources

Bandy, Jack. 2021. “Problematic Machine Behavior: A Systematic Literature Review of Algorithm Audits.” arXiv. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2102.04256.

Hill, Robin K. 2016. “What an Algorithm Is.” Philosophy & Technology 29 (1): 35–59. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13347-014-0184-5.

Mittelstadt, Brent Daniel. 2021. “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Doctor-Patient Relationship.” Council of Europe.

Mittelstadt, Brent Daniel, Patrick Allo, Mariarosaria Taddeo, Sandra Wachter, and Luciano Floridi. 2016. “The Ethics of Algorithms: Mapping the Debate.” Big Data & Society 3 (2): 205395171667967. https://doi.org/10.1177/2053951716679679.