Cupid’s Digital Arrows

Abstract

Personalization and machine learning algorithms are core to two of the most popular mobile dating applications, Tinder and Hinge. However, do they know their users better than users themselves? To explore this question, this paper investigates the most prominent ethical concerns with Tinder and Hinge’s algorithms and their ability to “nudge” and aggregate users’ decisions. Specifically, guided by Value-Sensitive Design, this paper examines the ethical concerns posed to users on matters of autonomy, opacity, and transparency, as Tinder and Hinge’s algorithms tread a fine line between supporting and controlling users’ matching decisions. Finally, calling for further research, this paper discusses the critical need for additional scholarly focus on the ways algorithms structure choice and whose interests they value.