Politics & Government
Algorithmic Governance and Political Accountability
Quick fact
In several countries, automated systems have mistakenly denied benefits or misidentified individuals because the algorithm's logic was too complex for officials to explain or contest, effectively creating a 'black hole' of accountability.
Why this is interesting
Governments increasingly use algorithms to decide who gets a loan, a job, or even a prison sentence. But when an algorithm makes a decision, who is held responsible?