Florian Krause

In this intervention, we discuss to what extent the term “decision” serves as an adequate terminology for what algorithms actually do. Although calculations of algorithms might be perceived as or be an important basis for a decision, we argue, that this terminology is not only misleading but also problematic. A calculation is not a decision, we claim, since a decision (implicitly) includes two important aspects: imaginaries about the future and a “fictional surplus” as well as the process of justification. Our proposal can be seen as an invitation to reflect but the role of “humans outside the code” (and not merely “in the loop”).

The article gives a micropolitical analysis of the position of German trade unions on voluntary agreements between nongovernmental organisation (NGOs) and corporations, mostly subsumed under the label CSR (corporate social responsibility). In the German system of industrial relations, trade unions have a hybrid character: On the one hand, they are part of the company through their members and especially through unionised works councils and share similar goals with the company. On the other hand, trade unions also merge political positions of society, keep an eye on companies’ actions, and share similar goals with NGOs. The micropolitical analysis of their positions towards voluntary agreements as well as their interaction raises general questions on how cooperation between firms and NGOs can secure decent working conditions and environmental protection.