This workshop discusses the implications of algorithmic work on occupational identity. It argues that algorithms and AI are changing the nature of work interactions and that this is disrupting the traditional way in which workers build their sense of self at work. It explores the impact of (intelligent) algorithms on occupational identities, particularly in the context of digital work where algorithms increasingly structure, command, and define what workers do. It argues that occupational identities are not simply defined by interactions with humans, but also by interactions with algorithms. This is because algorithms are becoming increasingly embedded in work processes, and workers are doing their work through algorithms as well as interacting with them directly. The PDW invites to explore new perspectives on occupational identity ‘in’ algorithmic work, where algorithms are seen as a new work structure that changes workers' relationship with their work and how they build their occupational self. The workshop suggests that researchers need to develop a new approach to studying identities in algorithms, one that takes into account the intra-active nature of the relationship between algorithms and workers. It gathers a panel of four scholars who are working on different aspects of algorithmic work and identity: Corentin Curchod, Samer Faraj, Sarah Lebovitz and Michael Pratt.
