Is artificial intelligence ready for the great rehiring?

While AI has the potential to eliminate bias in hiring, it can also multiply inequalities exponentially if it is used carelessly. This is because of the way that AI works: algorithms correlate information from a finite data set in order to make predictions about job applicants. An algorithm's predictions are only as sound as the data set on which it relies. If an algorithm's training data consists of the employer's current workforce, it may simply replicate the status quo. This can be problematic if the current workforce is made up predominantly of employees of one race, gender, or age group, because a hiring algorithm may automatically screen out applicants who do not share those same characteristics.