Krasemann - Blog Post 3

 

Johnson’s discussion of value laden algorithms and societal norms in “Are Algorithms Value-Free?” challenges the notion of oppression. In the early part of her argument, she establishes that “canons of inference are necessary means of overcoming underdetermination” (5). Some principles need to be taken for granted in the world in order to accomplish the aims of science. However, other epistemic values, such as the ones that were established under the basis of gender oppression, need to be updated. I would like to look into and discuss this idea, and how it is very difficult to accept epistemic values given the ever changing nature of societal norms.

Johnson introduces the example of a sleep medicine that was prescribed to fit the needs of men, but not of women. Not only that, but the issue took two decades to fix. Johnson points out that “In the case of novelty, the claim is that feminists adopt this virtue on the socio-political basis of aiming to depart from theories that have facilitated gender oppression throughout history” (8). Socio-political context influences norms and values, and these need to be constantly adjusted. A similar argument can be made toward domination under the Declaration of Independence, a document that was created under very different circumstances than the ones we find ourselves in today. The necessity of constantly adjusting standards affects many aspects of science as well, including the development of algorithms, for these algorithms are based on epistemic values that are subject to change.

Put simply, “canons of inference arise from a need to overcome underdetermination; they are bridges over inductive gaps” (12). These inductive gaps may widen and narrow over time, which is why the canons need to be adjusted based on shifts in societal practices and understandings. If adjustments to accepted norms are not made, are we making any progress as a society?

Another point I would like to address is Johnson’s discussion of hypotheses. Scientists, or the experts from which people base many of their beliefs, hold in them the power to influence society. That being said, “not only do scientists have to take into consideration the risk of getting things wrong whenever they perform an inference to some hypothesis, but also they have to keep in mind the influence that that wrong hypothesis will have in communities in which their judgement is regarded as expertise” (13). In this sense, scientists carry a lot of weight on their shoulders to ensure that society continues to progress and advance forward in fights for equality.

 The topic of hypotheses as value laden assumptions made me question, would it be possible to accept a hypothesis as an epistemic value? Or does that defeat the purpose of value laden induction?