Algorithms as Research Objects for Communication Science

Abstract

The political, societal or economic impact of algorithms is seen as one of the most debated issues in recent history. In this introduction to the special issue "Algorithms and Communication", we elaborate on the importance of algorithms as research objects for communication science. We discuss why algorithms are such an intensively discussed topic. We describe different kinds of "communicating algorithms" that affect processes of political, social and interpersonal communication. In this context, we elaborate on new research questions for communication sciences that arise out of the importance of algorithms. Finally, we conclude with a call for a transformation of traditional models of mass communication. Particularly, we highlight the necessity to systematically describe and define the role of algorithms as "autonomous" senders in communication processes.