Do not fall for their tricks! “Tech-Bros” only have a problem with rules when they are not the ones creating them. For example, Elon Musk talks a lot about freedom of speech, yet he manipulates algorithms to boost his ego or silence critics.
If certain powerful individuals succeed in dismantling state oversight, it would mean that no democratically elected government sets the rules anymore. Instead, a group of eccentric billionaires would. Their governance would be harsh, opaque, and ruthless.
The term “Code is Law” highlights this issue: programs and algorithms hold a quasi-legislative power. Internet activist Lawrence Lessig popularized this idea before the turn of the millennium. At that time, the phenomenon was largely confined to the online world. Today, algorithms impact almost every area of our lives, from job searches to credit approvals to the distribution of social benefits.
At the same time, machine decisions are becoming increasingly opaque. Even their creators often do not know what a machine learning model considers when making a decision. Even with the best intentions, it is challenging to protect algorithms from unfair biases. Currently, there is little evidence of good intentions from individuals like Musk and others. Thus, implicit bias is compounded by the risk of arbitrary decisions.
Democracy is a finely balanced system of forces and counterforces, power and control. People can intervene, raise objections, and demand accountability. There are good reasons why the EU, in its AI Act, requires that algorithmic decisions must be understandable. Otherwise, there is no way to contest them. The operators of unregulated digital platforms, however, act as lawmakers, police, prosecutors, and judges all in one. In other words, they are dictators.
No, the libertarian campaign against state regulation will not bring more freedom. Instead, it will bring a new, much harsher form of unfreedom.
In the world of technology, there is an ongoing debate about the role and power of algorithms. As technology becomes more integrated into our daily lives, the question of who controls these systems becomes increasingly important. Algorithms now influence everything from the news we see to the products we buy, and even the jobs we are offered.
This growing influence raises concerns about transparency and accountability. If algorithms are the new “law,” then who ensures they are fair and just? The lack of transparency in algorithmic decision-making processes is troubling. Often, not even the developers can fully explain how complex algorithms reach their conclusions.
The idea that a small group of tech elites could wield such significant power is alarming. It suggests a shift from democratic governance to a form of digital dictatorship, where a few individuals have control over crucial aspects of society.
Efforts to regulate these digital platforms and their algorithms are essential. Without regulation, there is a risk of creating a society where the rules are dictated by a few, rather than being the result of democratic processes. The EU’s AI Act is a step in the right direction, demanding transparency and accountability in algorithmic decisions.
Ultimately, the debate around technology and regulation is about balancing innovation with responsibility. As we move forward, it is crucial to ensure that technology serves the public good and enhances freedom, rather than restricting it.