Algorithmic Culture: How Big Data and Artificial Intelligence Are Transforming Everyday Life

Algorithmic Culture examines how big data and artificial intelligence reshape everyday life, perpetuating inequality and discrimination. It argues that consumers are undergoing an ontological overhaul due to the enhanced manipulability and mandatory nature of algorithms, while also offering potential solutions to navigate through market chaos.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

Algorithmic Culture: How Big Data and Artificial Intelligence are Transforming Everyday Life delves into the intricate ways in which algorithms and big data, collectively known as algorithmic culture, are simultaneously reshaping everyday culture while perpetuating inequality and intersectional discrimination. Contributors explore the complex interplay between issues of humanity, identity, and culture in relation to free will, surveillance, capitalism, neoliberalism, consumerism, solipsism, and creativity, offering a critical evaluation of the myriad constraints imposed by algorithms. This book argues that consumers are undergoing an ontological transformation due to the enhanced manipulability and increasingly mandatory nature of algorithms in the market, while also suggesting that algorithms can help navigate the inherent chaos present in market democracy. Ultimately, Algorithmic Culture draws attention to the entire cultural landscape as it has been reconfigured and re-presented by algorithms.

Introduction:
In the digital age, algorithms and big data have become omnipresent, shaping our lives in countless ways. While these technologies have brought about significant advancements and convenience, they have also raised concerns about their impact on society. Algorithmic Culture: How Big Data and Artificial Intelligence are Transforming Everyday Life explores the complex interplay between algorithms, big data, and culture, examining how they are reshaping our daily interactions, perceptions, and behaviors.

Reshaping Everyday Culture:
Algorithms and big data have the power to shape our cultural norms, values, and beliefs. They can influence what we consume, how we communicate, and how we interact with others. For example, social media platforms use algorithms to personalize our news feeds, showing us content that aligns with our interests and preferences. This has led to the creation of "filter bubbles," where individuals are only exposed to information that reinforces their existing beliefs, limiting their exposure to diverse perspectives.

Perpetuating Inequality and Discrimination:
However, the impact of algorithms and big data on culture is not always positive. They can perpetuate inequality and discrimination by amplifying existing biases and prejudices. For instance, algorithmic hiring systems have been shown to favor certain candidates over others based on their resumes, potentially leading to discrimination against marginalized groups. Similarly, online advertising algorithms can target specific demographics, leading to the exclusion of certain groups from opportunities and services.

Critique of Algorithms:
Contributors to Algorithmic Culture offer a critical evaluation of the constraints imposed by algorithms. They argue that algorithms are designed to optimize efficiency and profit, but they often prioritize these goals over human values and well-being. They highlight the need for ethical considerations in the design and implementation of algorithms, as well as the importance of transparency and accountability in their use.

Navigating Through Chaos:
While algorithms and big data can create chaos and uncertainty in the market, they can also be used to navigate through it. For example, machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data and make predictions about consumer behavior, helping businesses optimize their marketing strategies and improve customer satisfaction.

Conclusion:
Algorithmic Culture: How Big Data and Artificial Intelligence are Transforming Everyday Life provides a comprehensive examination of the complex ways in which algorithms and big data are shaping our culture. It highlights the need for ethical considerations, transparency, and accountability in the design and implementation of algorithms, as well as the potential for algorithms to be used to navigate through the chaos of market democracy. As we continue to rely on these technologies, it is essential to be aware of their impact on our society and work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive future.

Weight: 358g
Dimension: 219 x 155 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793635754