Harvard Online

Tech Ethics: Critical Thinking in the Age of Apps, Algorithms, and AI

The video introduces a new course on technology ethics, led by Michael Sandell, who frames the discussion through a conversation with actor‑director Michael B. Jordan. Together they probe the uneasy feelings that arise when apps, algorithms, and AI begin to shape personal and professional choices, from hiring to matchmaking. Key insights emerge around the double‑edged nature of algorithmic precision. While a hiring algorithm can be programmed to boost candidates from under‑represented groups, its reliance on historical data may inadvertently lock past discrimination into future outcomes. Similarly, an AI‑driven “best‑partner” app forces a clash between data‑based recommendations and the trusted counsel of a mother, highlighting the tension between efficiency and human intuition. Jordan’s quip, “Mom, I love you… you’re always right,” underscores the emotional stakes, while Sandell warns that “sometimes precision means that the past is frozen into the future.” The dialogue also questions whether social‑media feeds and chat‑bots are leading us to mistake virtual community for genuine connection, suggesting that old‑school storytelling around a campfire still holds unique value. The broader implication is clear: professionals must cultivate critical thinking and embed ethical safeguards when deploying AI. By treating ethical reasoning as a journey rather than a checklist, the course aims to equip leaders with the tools to balance technological innovation against societal impact, ensuring that data‑driven decisions enhance rather than erode equity and trust.