Antony West (Author)

Algorithmic “nudging” involves subtly influencing people’s choices and behaviours through carefully designed digital interfaces and personalised recommendations, often without their explicit awareness. From encouraging healthier eating choices to guiding financial decisions or influencing political opinions, these algorithms leverage insights from behavioural economics. While nudging can be used for positive societal outcomes, it raises significant ethical concerns when employed for commercial exploitation or manipulative control. Who decides what constitutes a “good” nudge, and what happens when the nudge serves the interests of the platform rather than the individual? The transparency and accountability of these systems are vital to protect individual autonomy in a world increasingly shaped by hidden digital persuaders. Have you ever felt “nudged” by an algorithm, and if so, how did it make you feel?