Social media algorithms are the hidden managers of our online lives. They are complex computer code that decides what we see and when we see it. They favor material that is most likely to keep us interested, which keeps us scrolling longer and makes the platforms more money. This effective filtering system has a big impact on how people think and on society as a whole, even if it gives each user a unique experience.

 

Effects on the Mind

 

 

Bias and Filter Bubbles

These algorithms are like digital echo chambers where we are always offered stuff that matches with what we already believe and want. This bias in algorithms is making to see different points of view difficult, making confirmation bias stronger and harder to find information that goes against what we believe. People anre becoming anxious as a result of limited flow of information because they feel like they have to only read the most dramatic or emotive articles.

 

Extremism and Polarization

It’s worrisome that in online groups people who share their views are often cut off.  Ideological polarization is caused by self-reinforcing loop, this is when organizations gravitate toward increasingly extreme beliefs. The system gives points to information making people really angry and upset, in which the public space feel more divided and hostile.

 

Last Notes

To be more aware digital citizens and fight against the subtle forces that want to make our world simpler and more divided, the first step is to understand how the algorithms work behind our feeds.