The Feel of Algorithms

The Feel of Algorithms explores why we feel excited, afraid, and frustrated by algorithms by combining first-person accounts with social science research. It argues that personal anecdotes are an important source of algorithmic knowledge and that taking everyday algorithmic emotions seriously helps balance the discussion. It highlights how political aims and ethical tensions play out in visions, practices, and emotional responses, and calls for alternatives that are currently ignored or suppressed.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

The emotional experiences associated with algorithms are a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that have been the subject of increasing research in recent years. This research seeks to understand how individuals perceive and interpret the actions of algorithms, as well as how these emotions impact their interactions with technology.

One reason why we feel excited, afraid, and frustrated by algorithms is that they are often portrayed as mysterious and unknowable entities. Algorithms are designed to perform specific tasks based on input data, but their inner workings are often opaque and difficult to understand. This can create a sense of anxiety and uncertainty, as individuals are unsure of how algorithms are making decisions that affect their lives.

Another factor that contributes to these emotional experiences is the way that algorithms are used in decision-making processes. Algorithms are often used to automate routine tasks and make decisions that have significant consequences for individuals and society. For example, algorithms are used in hiring decisions, loan approvals, and even medical diagnoses. These decisions can have a profound impact on individuals' lives, and the perceived fairness and accuracy of these algorithms can lead to feelings of frustration and anger.

In addition to these emotional experiences, algorithms can also evoke feelings of pleasure and excitement. For example, social media algorithms are designed to show users content that they are likely to be interested in, which can lead to feelings of engagement and satisfaction. Similarly, gaming algorithms are designed to create challenging and engaging experiences that can evoke feelings of excitement and accomplishment.

However, it is important to note that the emotional experiences associated with algorithms are not always positive. Algorithms can also be used to manipulate and control individuals, leading to feelings of oppression and exploitation. For example, online advertising algorithms are designed to target individuals with specific interests and preferences, which can lead to the spread of misinformation and the reinforcement of harmful stereotypes.

Overall, the emotional experiences associated with algorithms are a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that are influenced by a range of factors, including the perceived transparency and fairness of algorithms, the way that they are used in decision-making processes, and the individual's personal experiences and beliefs.

One way to address these emotional experiences is to increase transparency and accountability in the use of algorithms. This can involve providing individuals with more information about how algorithms are making decisions and giving them the ability to control their personal data. It can also involve developing ethical guidelines and standards for the use of algorithms, to ensure that they are used in a way that is consistent with human rights and values.

Another way to address these emotional experiences is to focus on the human-algorithm interaction. This involves designing algorithms that are more intuitive and user-friendly, and that are designed to work in conjunction with human decision-making processes. This can involve incorporating human feedback and intuition into the design of algorithms, as well as developing algorithms that are more sensitive to the emotional needs and experiences of individuals.

In conclusion, the emotional experiences associated with algorithms are a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that are influenced by a range of factors, including the perceived transparency and fairness of algorithms, the way that they are used in decision-making processes, and the individual's personal experiences and beliefs. By increasing transparency and accountability in the use of algorithms, and by focusing on the human-algorithm interaction, we can work towards creating a more ethical and responsible use of technology that is responsive to the emotional needs and experiences of individuals.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 145 x 217 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520394544