EPISODE

Should algorithms be able to influence court decisions and sentencing? In this inaugural August 2022 R&D with D&D discussion, Dave and Denise delve into AI’s increasing role in legal sentencing with Cornell Law Professor Jessica Eaglin, which continues to vex policymakers to this day.

Eaglin’s extensive research into algorithmic decisions and AI, particularly in criminal justice and sentencing, reveal the impact of this controversial development. Dave, Denise, and Jessica examine the potential for AI to positively guide sentencing decisions, as well as its potential for harm with coded biases and inaccurate information. They examine the prospect of AI becoming a nuisance to the functions of criminal courts. While AI is not ubiquitously good or bad, this critical discussion with a leading expert in the space brings into focus the need to consider how and when we utilize it, if it is to be beneficial for humanity. 

“What we think we care about is changing based on what we measure.”

 – Jessica Eaglin

“The glory of justice and the majesty of law are created not just by the Constitution – nor by the courts – nor by the officers of the law – nor by the lawyers – but by the men and women who constitute our society – who are the protectors of the law as they are themselves protected by the law.”

– Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy (1962)

Lead Photo by Claire Anderson on Unsplash