Wang Long Chai
November 1, 2024 18:21
As reported by a16z crypto, Harvard’s Bailey Flanigan is introducing an innovative algorithm for fair and tamper-proof classification to advance citizen assemblies and blockchain decision-making.
According to a16z crypto, Harvard’s Bailey Flanigan has revealed a groundbreaking algorithm designed to improve the fairness and robustness of classification. Sorition, the process of electing representatives through a lottery, is seeing renewed interest in civic assemblies and its potential application to blockchain governance.
Advance beyond classification
Flanigan’s work focuses on optimizing three core ideals of classification: proportional representation, equal opportunity for participation, and resistance to manipulation. This ideal is difficult to achieve in modern applications where participation cannot be mandated, thereby introducing bias into voluntary selection.
Her algorithm, developed with input from non-profit organizations that use citizen assemblies, enforces roughly proportional representation as a key constraint. We then aim to optimize the remaining ideals of equal participation and manipulation resistance through advanced mathematical formulations using optimization, algorithms and game theory.
Real applications and public access
Flanigan’s algorithm has been successfully deployed in a variety of high-profile civic assemblies, providing a powerful framework for more inclusive and fair decision-making processes. These tools are publicly available through Panelot.org, which provides resources for practitioners seeking to implement fair classification methods.
About Bailey Flanigan
Bailey Flanigan is a postdoctoral fellow at the Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at Harvard Ash. She earned her PhD in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon University, where she was advised by Ariel Procaccia. Beginning in fall 2025, Flanigan will join MIT as an assistant professor of political science and computer science.
a16z encryption research
a16z crypto Research is a multidisciplinary research lab dedicated to solving critical problems in the cryptocurrency space and advancing internet technology. They work closely with portfolio companies and other stakeholders to innovate and improve the scientific and technological landscape.
For further insights and updates on a16z encryption, please visit their website.
Image source: Shutterstock