28-02-2023
24 | Cathy O'Neil, Algorithm Auditor, Author of WMathD
Our guest is Cathy O'Neil, author of Weapons of Math Destruction: how big data increases inequality and threatens democracy.Cathy joined us to discuss critical aspects for auditors to consider, including:The human element: why understanding 'for whom an algorithm might fail' is more important than the detailed technical design of an algorithm.Algorithm testing: the importance of post-deployment testing to ensure there are no unintended adverse outcomes. Setting standards: the need for industry-wide standards so that regulators can ensure there is no bias or discrimination in how algorithms operate. Laggers and leaders: the four big industries/domains using algorithms that need to step up audit in their space and how law-makers and regulators are catching up.Emerging AI, e.g. language models/chatbots - why trust by users is key, and the pros and cons of using these models.LinksCathy's company, ORCAA Weapons of Math Destruction (book) This episode's web page: https://pareports.com/podcast/24 About this podcast The podcast for performance auditors.Hosted by Conor McGarrity and Yusuf Moolla.Produced by PA Reports - Performance Audit Research. Get updates New episodes, and a fortnightly newsletter with a selection of PA reports and practices from audit offices. https://pareports.com/#cta-subscribe This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit performanceaudit.substack.com