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Katharina Schneider is creating, experimenting, and researching at the intersection of design and technology.
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ich ex machina –
Identität im algorithmischen Zeitalter
(2022)
// Arduino, ml5.js, Node.js, p5.js, Twitter API, Webserial
ich ex machina video
ich ex machina – Identität im algorithmischen Zeitalter (English: i ex machina – identity in the age of algorithms) is an artistic exploration of the interaction between social media algorithms and users’ identities. It resulted in four interactive installations, each visualizing insights gained during the research process:
- Algorithms are prediction machines. They constantly collect and refine data on users, which is then used to predicts–and even influence–their behavior. This includes showing users content that is most likely to keep them engaged (i.e., spending more time on the platform, thereby increasing ad exposure) and placing ads with the highest likelihood of conversion. This behavior can also be exploited for political influence. Furthermore, it often favors hateful content, as such material tends to generate higher engagement.
- Algorithms create filter bubbles. By prioritizing content that aligns with users’ preferences, algorithms isolate them from perspectives outside their personal views and interests. As a result, alternative viewpoints are excluded, and harmful beliefs may be reinforced rather than challenged.
- Algorithms reproduce real-world biases. The data used to train algorithms reflects the (often unconscious) prejudices of those who curate it. These biases are then perpetuated in the algorithm’s behavior.
the copycat installation
Copycat returns an observer’s smile to hint at algorithmic
learning and, implicitly, bias. It illustrates how an
algorithm acquires its abilities from the data it is given.
In the installation, the algorithm “learns” by imitating the
observer, much like a child. It is neither inherently good
nor evil; it merely absorbs the biases introduced through
human curation and technical limitations.
the devil's advocate installation
Devil’s Advocate puts words into an observer’s mouth which are taken live from posts on Twitter (now X), some of which contain hateful language. The installation visualizes social media algorithms not only predict but also shape user behavior. Additionally, it highlights their potential as breeding grounds for extremist views.
the cheerleader installation
Cheerleader tracks the observer’s face with a camera and replicates it in an enlarged projection. This installation addresses the constant surveillance users face on social media and the phenomenon of filter bubbles. By confronting the observer with their own image, it echoes how algorithms continuously reflect users’ perspectives back at them, validating rather than questioning their worldview.
the next of kin installation
Next of Kin presents a distorted and ever-shifting image of the observer, symbolizing the perpetually evolving profiles that algorithms build and refine on social media users.
6 elements | various tags