Ethics of algorithms: WCGE supports sustainable.digital

At the opening of the new B.A.U.M and DBU Competence Platform for Sustainability and Digitalization in middle class, around 130 experts met in Bonn.

Friederike Fröhlich, as a representative of the WCGE, discussed in an interview with experts from the economy, science, politics and society two key thematic ethical questions that have to be confronted with the use of algorithms in recruitment procedures: well done Algorithmic decision-making processes promise better forecasting and more efficient work processes. This brings about the question of how much decision-making competences executives want, can have, and above all, are expected to hand over? Can algorithms improve the professional participation opportunities in a society? How can it be ensured that the use of algorithms does not lead to “moral blindness,” where mechanically determined discrimination tendencies are allowed to exist? And what type of transparency in decision-making tools is necessary so that leaders are held accountable to the parties concerned?

At the center of sustainable.digital is the question of how digitalization can be used for a livable, sustainable future – one that is ecologically, socially, ethically, culturally and economically valuable. In this question, the WCGE sees fundamental opportunities and challenges of our time. The WCGE is therefore pleased to contribute its expertise in fundamental economic and business ethics as well as in a practical orientation for ethical dilemmas.