Exploring the Contestation of Algorithms in Social Media: A New Research Article by Ljubiša Metikoš, Natali Helberger, and Claes de Vreese
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital technology and artificial intelligence, understanding the social and legal ramifications of these advancements is crucial. Natali Helberger, a distinguished Professor of Law and Digital Technology, dedicates her research on the effects of AI and automated decision-making on society and legal structures. Alongside, Ljubiša Metikoš, a PhD researcher at the Amsterdam Institute for Information Law (IVIR), the RPA HumaneAI, and the Paul Scholten Centre for Jurisprudence, focuses on the social implications and foundational values of state-implemented automated decision-making from a regulatory and philosophical perspective. Together with Claes de Vreese and Christopher Starke, they have published a research article titled “Contesting Personalized Recommender Systems: A Cross-Country Analysis of User Preferences” published in the journal Information, Communication & Society.
Their study draws inspiration from Jonathan Haidt’s recent work and insights provided by the Center for Humane Technology, led by Tristan Harris and Aza Raskin. It explores how users across different countries perceive and contest algorithmic influence.
Moreover, the study underscores the critical need for regulatory interventions to ensure that users have the agency to influence the algorithms that shape their online experiences. By providing users with the option to choose non-personalized RS, platforms can promote a healthier digital ecosystem that prioritizes user well-being and informational diversity. As the complex landscape of digital media continues to evolve, it is imperative that policymakers, researchers, and technology companies work collaboratively to create a more equitable and transparent online environment.
You can read the article here.