Algorithms in the room: AI, representation, and decisions about sustainable futures

Mills, Stuart and Sætra, Henrik Skaug (2025) Algorithms in the room: AI, representation, and decisions about sustainable futures. Technovation, 147. ISSN 0166-4972

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Abstract

This article considers the role of generative AI technologies, such as large language models (LLMs), in promoting the views of underrepresented groups. We are specifically concerned with the role AI could play in encouraging powerful decision-makers—often leading politicians and businesspeople in Western nations—to consider the perspectives of underrepresented groups when making decisions about sustainable development. Some suggest generative AI could offer decision-makers perspectives they had previously not considered, leading to more equitable and innovative policy approaches, and supporting several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We critique this perspective. Groups may be underrepresented in sustainable development decision-making because of individual cognitive and organisational information-processing limitations (‘omitted, but not opposed’), and because of opposition which remains even if these limitations are overcome (‘opposed, whether omitted or not’). We outline how these ‘categories of omission’ shape the opportunities and risks created by generative AI in representative sustainability.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© 2025 The Authors
Divisions:	Psychological and Behavioural Science
Subjects:	Q Science > QA Mathematics > QA75 Electronic computers. Computer science H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Date Deposited:	15 Jul 2025 13:39
Last Modified:	15 Jul 2025 16:03
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/128835

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