What question did this study set out to answer?

To examine how critical scholars should conceptualize and ethnographically study algorithms beyond conventional computer science definitions.

November 9, 2017Big Data & SocietyOpen Access

Algorithms as culture: Some tactics for the ethnography of algorithmic systems

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Authors

NSNick SeaverTufts University

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Implication

Qualitative framework reveals algorithms as diffuse sociotechnical systems rather than static formulas, indicating ethnographic outsider tactics can examine algorithmic culture without direct...

Key Points

To examine how critical scholars should conceptualize and ethnographically study algorithms beyond conventional computer science definitions.
Synthesized frameworks from science and technology studies (STS) and ethnographic methodology to reframe algorithmic definitions.
Analyzed divergent enactments of algorithms across professional computer science, accountability initiatives, and critical social research.
Characterizes algorithms as unstable 'multiples' and sociotechnical systems enacted through human interaction rather than fixed, procedural formulas.
Identifies practical ethnographic tactics that allow outsider researchers to empirically study algorithmic cultures without requiring direct corporate access or singular technical definitions.

Cite This Study

Nick Seaver (2017) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69da2437b48bb130d46843d2 https://doi.org/10.1177/2053951717738104

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Implication

Qualitative framework reveals algorithms as diffuse sociotechnical systems rather than static formulas, indicating ethnographic outsider tactics can examine algorithmic culture without direct...

Algorithms as culture: Some tactics for the ethnography of algorithmic systems

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

Algorithms as culture: Some tactics for the ethnography of algorithmic systems

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

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Also Consider