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Eine alternative Definition von Suchneutralität / An alternative definition of search neutrality

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  • Dewenter Ralf
  • Lüth Hendrik

Abstract

This paper proposes a new and more economically motivated definition of search neutrality. To deliver relevant results for each query a search engine has to choose from a large range of potential hits and rank results in a certain order. In the course of doing so, a search engine has to apply a set of relevance criteria, which is necessarily shaped by its own judgements. Therefore calls for „objective“ or „fair“ search results seem to be illusionary and misled. As we see an analogy between Internet search and the editorial selection process in media outlets, we define search neutrality negatively in terms of a media bias. According to our proposed definition, non-neutral search results differ systematically, sustainably and intentionally from user preferences in order to generate additional profit for the search provider.

Suggested Citation

  • Dewenter Ralf & Lüth Hendrik, 2015. "Eine alternative Definition von Suchneutralität / An alternative definition of search neutrality," ORDO. Jahrbuch für die Ordnung von Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft, De Gruyter, vol. 66(1), pages 221-242, January.
  • Handle: RePEc:bpj:ordojb:v:66:y:2015:i:1:p:221-242:n:12
    DOI: 10.1515/ordo-2015-0112
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Budzinski Oliver & Köhler Karoline Henrike, 2015. "Is Amazon The Next Google?," ORDO. Jahrbuch für die Ordnung von Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft, De Gruyter, vol. 66(1), pages 263-288, January.
    2. Budzinski, Oliver, 2016. "Aktuelle Herausforderungen der Wettbewerbspolitik durch Marktplätze im Internet," Ilmenau Economics Discussion Papers 103, Ilmenau University of Technology, Institute of Economics.

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