Can an AI Algorithm Predict Prejudice?

We’re using AI and Machine Learning to predict everything from disasters to superbugs to pandemics, among many other things. What if we could predict prejudice and hate crimes like we do the weather?

We soon may be able to. Researchers at McGill University and the University of Toronto are laying the groundwork to develop a predictive algorithm for prejudice. Starting from the equation: Prejudice = Threat – Contact + Identification, the team adds some numbers and is already predicting at 50%-60% accuracy.

They are currently working to make this initial model more accurate.

They published their study, Prejudice Model 1.0: A Predictive Model of Prejudice, in Psychological Review.