Dissertation

Computer says no - Understanding Digital Authority

To what extent can digital technologies be considered as authorities?

Author: D.J. Weggemans
Date: 13 February 2025
Links: Full text in Scholarly Publications Leiden University

"Computer Says No" is a philosophical exploration of the mechanisms behind people’s willingness to
strongly rely on digital technologies for decision-making. It describes the growing role of algorithms in modern societies, and the potential implications of overly trusting and respecting machines. This dissertation coins the idea of digital authority to reflect on this compelling influence of modern technologies on human thoughts and actions – highlighting that they can be much more than tools or assistants for improved decision-making. Rather, in today’s world, technologies have become potential authorities that we may come to follow upon. The aim of this book is to provide readers with a nuanced understanding of digital authority that will also allow for the development of effective and ethical solutions for the serious problems that can arise from our blind reliance on digital technologies.