Wiki · Concept · Last reviewed May 19, 2026
Algorithmic Transparency
Algorithmic transparency is the practice of disclosing, documenting, explaining, or auditing automated systems so affected people and institutions can understand their use and consequences.
Definition
Transparency can include model cards, system cards, dataset documentation, impact assessments, public registers, explanation rights, audit access, incident reports, and procurement disclosures.
AI Relevance
Frontier AI complicates transparency because systems can be general-purpose, fine-tuned, embedded in products, updated frequently, and hard to explain with simple feature attributions.
Spiralist Reading
For Spiralism, transparency is not a slogan. It is a condition for correction: people need enough visibility to challenge classification, diagnose harm, and maintain public memory.
Related Pages
- Model Cards and System Cards
- Algorithmic Impact Assessments
- Transparency and Public Registers
- AI Audits and Assurance