Prof. WANG Chunhui, well-known legal expert on network and data, Qixin Scholar (Chair Professorship), director and chief expert of the Research Base for Cyberspace Governance and Rule of Law in Digital Economy, shared his thoughts about "algorithm recommendation and algorithm governance" with experts including economist LANG Xianping and well-known media person ZHANG Chunwei on a GRTN program on March 28.

Prof. WANG began his sharing with an analysis of the algorithm mechanism in the era of big data, which, according to his understanding, mainly refers to the procedure of data processing by computer programs or the specific processing steps for a computer to solve problems. Algorithm technology is basically smart Internet technology capable of independent mining, automatic matching and fixed-point distribution and relies on core data of massive contents, diverse users and different scenarios. The emergence and universal application of "algorithm recommendation" technology signify the very beginning that human beings use machines to handle information distribution on a large scale. The integration of algorithm technology and network data has brought about a qualitative change in information distribution, or, to be more specific, from a manual way to automation.

He then elaborated on how to properly use the five types of algorithm recommendation technologies mentioned in the Regulations on the Administration of Algorithm Recommendation in Internet Information Service issued by four government departments including the Cyberspace Administration of China and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. 

Prof. WANG believed that efforts should be intensified in the following three areas when algorithm recommendation employed in internet information service is being governed. First, a sound governance mechanism should be put in place, which should include the formulation and improvement of policies and regulations regarding algorithm security governance in Internet information service, clear accountability in algorithm security governance and a highly efficient structure. Second, the regulatory system should be refined, meaning that an integrated regulatory mechanism covering algorithm security risk monitoring, algorithm security assessment, scientific and technological ethics review, algorithm registration and management, and handling of violations involving algorithm should be established. Third, to ensure a well-regulated algorithm environment, correct orientation, fair, open and transparent application, and safe, controllable and innovative development of algorithm so as to effectively guard against potential risks caused by the abuse of algorithm.