Rethinking research on social harms in an algorithmic context

Abstract

In this paper we suggest that theoretically and methodologically creative interdisciplinary research can benefit the research on social harms in an algorithmic context. We draw on our research on automated decision making within public authorities and the current on-going legislative reform on the use of such in Finland. The paper suggests combining socio-legal studies with science and technology studies (STS) and highlights an organisational learning perspective. It also points to three challenges for researchers. The first challenge is that the visions and imaginaries of technological expectations oversimplify the benefits of algorithms. Secondly, designing automated systems for public authorities has overlooked the social and collective structures of decision making, and the citizen’s perspective is absent. Thirdly, as social harms are unforeseen from the perspective of citizens, we need comprehensive research on the contexts of those harms as well as transformative activities within public organisations.