Unmasking AI

"Defaults are not neutral. They often reflect the coded gaze—the preferences of those who have the power to choose what subjects to focus on." The coded gaze refers to how the priorities, preferences, and prejudices of those who create technology can propagate harm through discrimination and erasure. Joy Buolamwini discovered this concept while working on a facial recognition project at MIT, where she had to wear a white mask for the system to detect her face. This experience led her to investigate bias in AI systems, particularly in facial recognition technologies. Buolamwini's research revea

Lesson 1: The Coded Gaze: Uncovering Bias in AI Systems

This principle from Unmasking AI is backed by Joy Buolamwini's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 2: From Art Project to Global Movement: The Birth of the Algorithmic Justice League

This principle from Unmasking AI is backed by Joy Buolamwini's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 3: Algorithmic Audits: Exposing Flaws in Commercial AI Products

This principle from Unmasking AI is backed by Joy Buolamwini's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

How to Apply Unmasking AI's Lessons

The real value of Unmasking AI lies in its applicability. After reading, the most important step is identifying which of Joy Buolamwini's principles speak most directly to your current situation.

Consider keeping a journal while reading — noting where the ideas challenge your current approach and where they confirm what you already suspected. The friction of your own resistance often points to the most important insights.

Key Quote

"The Coded Gaze: Uncovering Bias in AI Systems" — Joy Buolamwini, Unmasking AI

About the Author

Joy Buolamwini is the author of Unmasking AI. The book reflects years of research, observation, and synthesis of evidence from multiple disciplines.