Your Algorithmic Proxy
Overview
Ruha Benjamin argues that algorithms are not neutral; they are “coded reflections” of social priorities. In this lab, you will reflect on your own digital algorithmic environment. Your goal is to move from a consumer of content to an observer of the system that predicts you.
Step 1: The Prediction Log (~15 Minutes)
Open your most-used algorithmic feed (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, or Spotify). Document the first five items presented to you. For each item, record:
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The Content: A brief description of the video/post/song.
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What data breadcrumb did you leave behind that you think led the machine here? (e.g., a specific search, a long pause on a previous video, your GPS location).
Step 2: Defining your “Algorithmic Proxy” (15 Minutes)
Benjamin discusses how data systems use “proxies” to categorize us. Based only on those five items, answer the following:
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If a stranger saw only this feed, what “User Category” would they assign you? (Give this category a name, e.g., “The Doomsday Prepper,” “The Fast-Fashion Consumer,” “The Corporate Striver”).
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Identify one significant part of your identity, hobby, or value system that is entirely missing from this feed. Why might this part of you be invisible to the algorithm’s profit model?
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Look at an item in your feed that feels wrong or like a stereotype. Is it a mistake, or does it reveal an assumption the developers made?
Submission Requirements
Submit a 250-word summary including:
- Your Data Log: The 5 items and your proxy category name.
- Analysis: Describe the part of you the machine misses or gets wrong and why that silence or assumption in the data matters.
Submit as a PDF below. Due Friday Feb 6th at Midnight. Alternate Link