Research Symposium

BIO

Hi! My name is Joseph Cofer and I'm a first year from Ormond Beach, Florida, studying at Florida State University. While I'm majoring in International Affairs, I have a variety of interests that include Diplomacy, Business Administration, Homeland Security, and many others. I was interested in researching this project due to its relevancy and mobility as the field of algorithms is constantly evolving and becoming omnipresent to a greater degree in each of our lives.

"An Approach to Categorize the Ethical Considerations of Modern Algorithms"

Abstract

A classificatory schema with which to assess the morally salient features of algorithms will be presented. To assess this schema, this project will show how such classifications can capture the moral features of algorithms used by the military as well as social media companies.
By proving how the classificatory schema can provide insight into these different fields, it helps establish the broad applicability of the schema, and allows us to triangulate on the more general ethical questions raised by algorithms (rather than allowing ourselves to get lost in details of a particular sector).
Algorithms integrated into the military tend to focus on more tangible results which may be expressed through the implementation of unmanned technology. The primary focus of social media algorithms, however, is to retain engagement and earn profit.
The intersection of said algorithms can be found in the desire to gain data for external leverage upon others. The United States military has an incentive to acquire data on individuals who may be a threat, and plan accordingly for battle. Social media organizations utilize algorithms that incorporate users’ engagement and interests to leverage their data to advertising agencies, thereby increasing profits through the providing of more bespoke advertisements. 
Through the comparison of seemingly contrasting sectors, we seek to analyze how how different forms of algorithms may be utilized to achieve similar results. Via an analysis of different strains of algorithms across these two fields, we underpin the intentions of algorithms through overarching themes of leverage and access to information.

Keywords: Philosophy, Algorithms, Schema