"Three Drops of Blood for the Devil": Data Pioneers as Intermediaries of Algorithmic Governance Ideals
"Three Drops of Blood for the Devil": Data Pioneers as Intermediaries of Algorithmic Governance Ideals

Summary/Abstract: Governance bodies formulated the universal ideals of algorithmic decision-making. But,the role of data experts acting as pioneers in developing, resisting, and implementing theseideals is not known. This study relies on in-depth interviews (n=24) conducted with Estonian data experts to explore data pioneers’ understandings of algorithmic governance ideals. The results reveal dual transformations in the social datafication process where datapioneers develop technologies and intermediate their ideals towards algorithmic solutions.The study highlighted new sectorial ‘algorithmic divides’, in both data accessibility as wellas ideals among data pioneers in public and private institutions. The resulting force majeurein datafication, which prevents private and public sector experts from forming a uniformcommunity, can create a vicious circle of unforeseen negative consequences. Resolving thedivides in algorithmic communities and advancing cross-sector cooperation is the basis forforming transparency, accountability and social good as the main ideals in algorithmicdecision-making.

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