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Contribution Details

Type Journal Article
Scope Discipline-based scholarship
Title A sociotechnical view of algorithmic fairness
Organization Unit
Authors
  • Mateusz Dolata
  • Stefan Feuerriegel
  • Gerhard Schwabe
Item Subtype Original Work
Refereed Yes
Status Published in final form
Language
  • English
Journal Title Information Systems Journal
Publisher Wiley-Blackwell Publishing, Inc.
Geographical Reach international
ISSN 1350-1917
Volume 32
Number 4
Page Range 754 - 818
Date 2022
Abstract Text Algorithmic fairness (AF) has been framed as a newly emerging technology that mitigates systemic discrimination in automated decision-making, providing opportunities to improve fairness in information systems (IS). However, based on a state-of-the-art literature review, we argue that fairness is an inherently social concept and that technologies for AF should therefore be approached through a sociotechnical lens. We advance the discourse on AF as a sociotechnical phenomenon. Our research objective is to embed AF in the sociotechnical view of IS. Specifically, we elaborate on why outcomes of a system that uses algorithmic means to assure fairness depend on mutual influences between technical and social structures. This perspective can generate new insights that integrate knowledge from both technical fields and social studies. Further, it spurs new directions for IS debates. We contribute as follows: First, we problematize fundamental assumptions in the current discourse on AF based on a systematic analysis of 310 articles. Second, we respond to these assumptions by theorizing AF as a sociotechnical construct. Third, we propose directions for IS researchers to enhance their impacts by pursuing a unique understanding of sociotechnical AF. We call for and undertake a holistic approach to AF. A sociotechnical perspective on AF can yield holistic solutions to systemic biases and discrimination.
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Digital Object Identifier 10.1111/isj.12370
Other Identification Number merlin-id:21570
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