[Closing Keynote] Artificial Intelligence, Algorithmic Bias and Why Diversity in Tech Matters More Than Ever

Just as AI and algorithmically-based decision making become more pervasive, there is ample evidence that these algorithms, which supposedly enable decisions that are free from ‘human bias,’ are in fact showing significant signs of gender, racial and socioeconomic bias themselves. At the same time, diversity among those who are designing and developing this technology has been trending in the wrong direction – impacting not only the fairness and effectiveness of these systems/products but also which problems and challenges get attention. There are straightforward steps that companies can and should take to mitigate and/or reduce algorithmic bias which will be discussed. And while there are many reasons why diversity in tech matters – addressing this issue may be our first line of defense against algorithmic bias.