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Artificial intelligence, distributional fairness, and pivotality

Author

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  • Klockmann, Victor
  • von Schenk, Alicia
  • Villeval, Marie Claire

Abstract

In the field of machine learning, the decisions of algorithms depend on extensive training data contributed by numerous, often human, sources. How does this property affect the social nature of human decisions that serve to train these algorithms? By experimentally manipulating the pivotality of individual decisions for a supervised machine learning algorithm, we show that the diffusion of responsibility weakened revealed social preferences, leading to algorithmic models favoring selfish decisions. Importantly, this phenomenon cannot be attributed to shifts in incentive structures or the presence of externalities. Rather, our results suggest that the expansive nature of Big Data fosters a sense of diminished responsibility and serves as an excuse for selfish behavior that impacts individuals and the whole society.

Suggested Citation

  • Klockmann, Victor & von Schenk, Alicia & Villeval, Marie Claire, 2025. "Artificial intelligence, distributional fairness, and pivotality," European Economic Review, Elsevier, vol. 178(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eecrev:v:178:y:2025:i:c:s0014292125001485
    DOI: 10.1016/j.euroecorev.2025.105098
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    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D10 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - General
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • D90 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - General
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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