September Topic: Discriminatory Affects of AI and Algorithms

Please note the time of this event per time zone:
5 p.m. EST // 4 p.m. CST // 3 p.m. MST // 2 p.m. PST // 1 p.m. AKST

Presented in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Alaska

This month, we are doing a deeper dive into how the use of AI and algorithms in areas like hiring and housing can create or exacerbate structural discrimination. Our guest is Mona Sloane, Assistant Professor of Data Science and Media Studies at the University of Virginia (UVA). At UVA, Mona runs Sloane Lab which conducts empirical research on the implications of technology for the organization of social life. Its focus lies on AI as a social phenomenon that intersects with wider cultural, economic, material, and political conditions. The lab spearheads social science leadership in applied work on responsible AI, public scholarship, and technology policy.

Suggested reading: "The New Age of Hiring: AI is Changing the Game for Job Seekers"
 

About the series:

Disinformation. Conspiracy theories. Extremism. Surveillance. Our democracy is threatened as never before by toxic online content. The social media giants seem unable, or in some cases unwilling, to control the flood of lies and manipulative practices. The staggering — often hidden — reach of Big Tech into our lives endangers civil society, our civil rights, and our privacy. In a "post-truth" world we risk losing the shared understanding that underpins our democracy. 

Each month, we explore a different facet of this crisis with guest experts. Join us to learn, discuss, and work on possible solutions.