Human Biases Reflected As Computer Biases

Bias: prejudice in favor of or against a thing, person, or group

What is “computer bias”?

The existence of prejudiced outcomes in the decisions or predictions made by computer systems/algorithms. Bias can be implemented into algorithms because of human biases being intentionally inserted or because of the data utilized being biased.

Explicit Data: Information directly provided by user.

Implicit Data: Infomration that can inferred from explicit data.

Based on either explicit/implicit data that has been used to train an algorithm, whether intentionally introduced or during the process of training data generation, bias can be created.

A notable example of this is seen in Netflix, where there are is a human factor that drives bias: Netflix exclusives are placed ahead (a show that is a Netflix exclusive means that users will be more likely to stay with Netflix). The bias in this case is Netflix’s prioritzation towards Netflix-produced shows.

Hack 1:

What is another example of a human bias being implemented into an algorithm?

Answer:

Reducing Bias

Programmers should take action to reduce bias in algorithms used for computing innovations as a way of combating existing human biases. Softwares need to be unbiased, consider all everything, and reject human bias.

Things to consider when developing programs:

  • What are potential sources of bias?
  • Is your program enhancing or intentionally excluding?
  • Are you receiving feedback from a widespread group of people?
  • How could people who differ from you use your developments?

Hack 2:

What is another way a programmer can reduce bias in their softwares?

Answer:

Types of Bias in Software Development

Biases can be embedded at all levels of software development.

It can be intentional or unintentional. Some software development are made for a certain market and ensure that people of certain places or demographics can use them easily. However, this doesn’t mean that they are trying to exclude.

Examples:

Intentional:

  • Games could be geared towards a certain age range (Talking Tom vs Valorant)
    • Game concepts
    • Music
    • Visuals

  • WeChat and KakaoTalk
    • Almost everyone in China uses WeChat
    • KakaoTalk is the Korean version

Unintentional:

  • Social media, Facebook vs. instagram

Hack 3:

What are some other examples of intentional and/or unintentional bias in innovations (games, social media, technology, etc.)?

Answer:

Homework questions made by me 💗💗💗💗