What is your professional background, and what is your primary area of research?
"I originally trained as an anthropologist with a postgraduate degree in organisation and management (Master of Social Sciences in Political Communication and Management from CBS). Today, I am an associate professor at DPU and research how artificial intelligence and other data-driven technologies are changing the relationship between the state and its citizens.

For example, in the research project Data Visions: Teaching in the age of digital data visualisations (DFF), I have researched the implications of data visualisations in digital teaching materials automating some of the teacher's work in assessing students. In the Algorithms, Data and Democracy project (Velux and Villum Foundations), I have examined the public sector's experiments with artificial intelligence in the area of vulnerable children and young people and in the joint public AI Signature Projects.

My research shows that artificial intelligence is not a neutral technology. It is important to examine AI critically because the technology always reflects certain values, priorities and ideas about the world – both in its design, application and the data on which it is based. When AI is introduced into the welfare state, it affects not only workflows and decision-making processes, but also what we perceive as legitimate knowledge, and it changes the conditions for working with fairness and accountability.

For example, algorithmic systems can reinforce existing inequalities or shift power away from professionals and citizens. Therefore, the use of AI requires not only technical expertise, but also research-based knowledge about how we use the technology so that it supports professionalism and fairness.”

What do you work with at CAISA?
"CAISA is a national centre for artificial intelligence in society that conducts research and provides advice on how we in a democracy like Denmark can best develop and manage artificial intelligence in a responsible and democratic manner.

At CAISA , I am concerned with the citizen and employee perspective on artificial intelligence. This means that I work with how AI affects the everyday lives of those who have to live with the technology – especially in the welfare state, where the practices of frontline workers are increasingly supported by algorithmic systems.

I want to contribute to giving both citizens and employees a more active voice in decisions about how and to what extent we should use AI – including in the development, design and implementation of technologies. It is about expanding the democratic scope for action at a time when many decisions are left to technical experts.

I would also like to work to ensure that organisations using AI become more responsive to the often unintended consequences that the technology can have in practice. This requires us to develop a more learning-oriented and reflective feedback culture, where experiences from everyday use – both positive and problematic – are actively incorporated into the further development of the systems.”

What impact do you expect the centre to have on society or your field of research?
"At the societal level, I see CAISA as an advisory platform where we can bring research-based knowledge into play and make a real difference for decision-makers. We need a place where complex knowledge about AI and its consequences – technological, ethical and social – can be communicated in a way that supports more informed and responsible decisions.

In terms of research, I see CAISA as a unifying actor that can strengthen both Danish and international research in the field. I look forward to collaborating with talented colleagues at home and abroad and to exploring how we can gather and disseminate the vast amount of knowledge that already exists about AI in society – and, not least, contribute new knowledge.

My own focus will be on how we can support democratic and human-centred development and use of AI in the public sector – a use based on inclusion and responsive, organisational learning.”

Read about Helene Ratner's project in SHAPE ‘Algorithms, Data and Democracy’ here.