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ESSAY

This document discusses the ethical dilemma of algorithmic bias in automated hiring platforms, highlighting the potential for discrimination against underrepresented groups due to biased training data. It explores ethical concerns from various perspectives, proposes solutions such as data auditing and human oversight, and emphasizes the importance of fairness and transparency in AI technologies. The conclusion advocates for a combined approach to create equitable hiring processes and mitigate social inequalities.

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Catherine Fenandez
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3 views

ESSAY

This document discusses the ethical dilemma of algorithmic bias in automated hiring platforms, highlighting the potential for discrimination against underrepresented groups due to biased training data. It explores ethical concerns from various perspectives, proposes solutions such as data auditing and human oversight, and emphasizes the importance of fairness and transparency in AI technologies. The conclusion advocates for a combined approach to create equitable hiring processes and mitigate social inequalities.

Uploaded by

Catherine Fenandez
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Ethical Dilemma about Algorithmic Bias in Hiring Platforms

Student Name: Johnric T. Ysulat


Date: December 20, 2024

Introduction
 Overview of the Dilemma:
This project explores the ethical dilemma of algorithmic bias in automated hiring
platforms. These platforms use AI algorithms to screen and rank job applicants based on
various criteria. However, if the training data used to develop these algorithms reflects
existing societal biases, the algorithms can perpetuate and even amplify discrimination
against certain demographic groups, such as women or minorities. This raises ethical
concerns about fairness, equal opportunity, and the potential for legal repercussions.
 Key Stakeholders:
The key stakeholders include job applicants (particularly those from underrepresented
groups), hiring companies using the platforms, the developers of the AI algorithms,
regulatory bodies responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws, and society at large,
which benefits from a fair and equitable job market.

Ethical Issues Involved


 Main Ethical Concerns :The central ethical issue is the conflict between
efficiency and fairness. While AI-driven hiring platforms offer the potential
for faster and more efficient recruitment processes, they also pose a significant
risk of perpetuating bias. This conflict can be analyzed through different
ethical lenses:
 Deontology: From a deontological perspective, the use of biased algorithms
violates the moral duty to treat all individuals with respect and dignity,
regardless of their background. It fails to uphold the fundamental right to
equal opportunity.
 Utilitarianism: From a utilitarian perspective, while AI-driven hiring might
increase overall efficiency and potentially benefit companies, the negative
consequences for discriminated groups and the potential for societal unrest
outweigh the potential gains.
 Virtue Ethics: From a virtue ethics standpoint, the use of biased algorithms
reflects a lack of fairness, justice, and compassion. It does not embody the
virtues expected of responsible technology developers and businesses.
Analysis of Alternatives
Possible Courses of Action:
 Data Auditing and Bias Mitigation: Regularly audit training data for biases
and implement techniques to mitigate these biases. This could involve using
techniques like data balancing, adversarial debiasing, or creating synthetic
data.
 Pros: Addresses the root cause of the problem by attempting to remove
bias from the data. Potentially leads to more equitable outcomes.
 Cons: Bias detection and mitigation are complex and ongoing processes.
It's difficult to guarantee complete elimination of bias. Requires significant
technical expertise.
 Human Oversight and Review: Implement human review of algorithmic
decisions, particularly for shortlisted candidates. This allows human
judgment to correct potential biases.
 Pros: Provides a safeguard against algorithmic bias. Allows for
consideration of factors not easily captured by algorithms.
 Cons: Increases the cost and time of the hiring process. Human reviewers
may also have their own biases.
 Transparency and Explainability: Make the algorithms' decision-making
processes more transparent and explainable. This allows applicants to
understand why they were or were not selected.
 Pros: Increases trust and accountability. Allows for identification of
potential biases.
 Cons: Technical challenges in making complex AI algorithms fully
explainable. May reveal sensitive business information.

Ethical Decision-Making Process

 Chosen Solution:
A combined approach utilizing data auditing and bias mitigation along with human
oversight is the most ethical choice. While data auditing and bias mitigation are crucial for
addressing the root cause of the problem, they cannot guarantee complete elimination of bias.
Therefore, human oversight acts as a necessary safety net to catch any remaining biases and
ensure fairness in individual cases. This combined approach aligns with the deontological
principle of treating individuals with respect and the utilitarian goal of maximizing overall
fairness and minimizing harm.

Reflection and Long-Term Consequences

 Potential Outcomes: In the long term, implementing these measures can


lead to a more equitable and diverse workforce, benefiting both individuals
and organizations. It can also enhance trust in AI technologies and promote
their responsible development. Conversely, failing to address algorithmic
bias can perpetuate social inequalities, damage the reputation of
organizations using these technologies, and lead to legal challenges.
 Personal Reflection: This project has highlighted the importance of
considering ethical implications during the development and deployment of
AI systems. It has emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach that
combines technical solutions with human oversight and ethical frameworks.
It also underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation to
ensure that these systems remain fair and unbiased.

Conclusion
Algorithmic bias in hiring platforms presents a significant ethical challenge. By
combining data auditing, bias mitigation, and human oversight, we can strive to create more
equitable and inclusive hiring processes. It is crucial to prioritize fairness and transparency in
the development and use of AI technologies to ensure that they benefit society as a whole.

References
O'Neil, C. (2016).* Weapons of math destruction: How big data increases inequality
and threatens democracy*. Crown.
Barocas, S., & Selbst, A. D. (2016). Big data's disparate impact. *California Law
Review*, *104*(3), 671-732.

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