The Illusion of Objectivity | Interpreting Coordinates Ch. 5
Interpreting Coordinates The Human Role in an Algorithmic World PART I · Chapter 5 Why Claiming Neutrality Can Hide the Position Behind a Judgment People often say: “I looked at it objectively.” “I removed my personal feelings.” “I tried to stay neutral.” These are among the fastest ways to gain trust. At the same time, they can become some of the most dangerous sentences we use. Because removing personal feeling does not, by itself, make a judgment objective.¹ 1. Objectivity Is Not an Attitude. It Is a Condition. Objectivity is not a mindset. It is not merely a matter of intention or sincerity. A claim of objectivity becomes meaningful only when its conditions are made explicit. What was chosen as the comparison group? What was defined as the whole? What was excluded—and for what reason? When someone claims objectivity without answering these questions, the statement begins to look less like analysis and more like a declaration of belief.² Most of us want to be objective. Far fewer of...