Technocratic Empathy: Algorithmic Decision-Making and the Simulation of Care in Welfare Systems
The algorithmic coding of welfare systems introduces a technocratic model of empathy where machine logic attempts to simulate human care. This paper examines ethical, political, and social consequences of algorithmic decision-making, highlighting how such systems may reproduce inequality, depersonalize care, and challenge accountability.
Algorithmic Governance, Technocratic Empathy, Welfare Systems, Digital Ethics, Social Policy, Automated Decision-Making
Although algorithmic systems can enhance efficiency, they cannot fully replicate the ethical and relational dimensions of human care. A hybrid model combining technological capability with human judgment is essential to ensure fairness, accountability, and social justice.
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