Why do we urgently need an ethics of quantification.

What is it about?

Quantifications are produced by several disciplinary houses in a myriad of different styles.The concerns about unethical use of algorithms, unintended consequences of metrics, as well as the warning about statistical and mathematical malpractices are all part of a general malaise, symptoms of our tight addiction to quantification. What problems are shared by all these instances of quantification? After reviewing existing concerns about different domains,the present perspective article illustrates the need and the urgency for an encompassing ethics of quantification. The difficulties to discipline the existing regime of numerification are addressed; obstacles and lock-ins are identified. Finally, indications for policies for different actors are suggested.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

Human life is increasingly conditioned by numbers, be these visible - as when produced by rating, ranking, mathematical and statistical models, or invisible, as when used inside algorithms taking decisions or everyday life or influencing the behavior of voters or customers.

Perspectives