Whenever I read an article like this, I am reminded of this old article by Adam Elkus [0]:

"It’s problematic to examine algorithms as anything except the formalization and realization of procedures and stratagems that predate Python or R analytics code. “Algorithmic accountability” crusaders are talking about entrenched sociopolitical problems without really talking about them; computers become scapegoats for undesired features of capitalism, bureaucracy, and politics."

[0]: https://slate.com/technology/2015/05/algorithms-arent-respon...