How is racism defined and perceived?

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Racism is defined as using external physiological traits, such as physical appearance, to make judgments about individuals' inner qualities. This concept emphasizes how judgments based on physical traits can place people into hierarchical classifications, even without intentional malice or racial animus 1.

Luke Stark, an expert in AI ethics, discusses that racism operates as a "technique" often used by the powerful to categorize and control different groups, particularly non-white individuals. This technique is not always recognized by those who perpetuate it, especially in technology development where systemic biases can be ingrained unknowingly in design and deployment 1.

Therefore, the perception of racism extends beyond conscious prejudice, emphasizing the structural and systemic mechanisms that perpetuate racial hierarchies and classifications, often embedded in societal and technological practices 1.

Race and Technology

Luke discusses how digital models of the human body can perpetuate racism by mapping external traits to make judgments about individuals. He emphasizes that while technologists may not intend to be racist, they often unknowingly employ a classificatory technique that mirrors systemic racism. This highlights the need for awareness of how technology can reinforce societal hierarchies.
The TWIML AI Podcast (formerly This Week in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence)
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