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The moment that got me in this film was when they described how social network monetization algorithms gently move us toward a more radical position. We are bet

by ttul 6y ago

The moment that got me in this film was when they described how social network monetization algorithms gently move us toward a more radical position. We are better targets for advertisers when we spend more time on the platform. The platform doesn't care _why_ we're on the platform; it just wants us to be there as much as possible. If the platform nudges us toward radical right-wing conspiracies, so be it. Similarly, if it helps us become a fervent Democrat, so long as we're on the platform, that's all that matters. I deleted Facebook and Instagram Friday night after watching, and I suspect many of you will as well. I've had a great weekend with so much free time...

kenjackson 6y ago
Why does it move us to a more radical position? Is it because the more radical you are the more time you spend on the platform? I haven't seen it, but I'm somewhat confused. FB and Instagram just show me posts from friends and family? Most youth sports, social events (weddings, dinners), babies, etc... FB does have some political posting, but IG very little. And YouTube has virtually nothing political. I never go to the News channel. Its just all sports highlights recommended to me.
- messo 6y ago
  Your experience exemplifies one of the problems with social media: the radically different information diet served to different users. All of the platforms you mentioned can be profoundly political and filled with extreme content, depending on which rabbit whole you have been exposed to and captivated by. EDIT: I forgot to attempt to answer your actual question, sorry. It's not that the platforms intentionally tries to radicalize you. The algorithms are programed to keep your attention for as long as possible, to keep you engaged and scrolling through your feed. The more time you spend on their platform, there more ads they can show you and the more money they make. The radicalization is largely (I believe) an unintended consequence caused by the fact that recommending and showing you content that engages you emotionally makes you spend more time with them. This can also be exploited by people, groups or even nations who want to propagate a certain message or worldview.

by ttul 6y ago

kenjackson 6y ago

Why does it move us to a more radical position? Is it because the more radical you are the more time you spend on the platform? I haven't seen it, but I'm somewhat confused. FB and Instagram just show me posts from friends and family? Most youth sports, social events (weddings, dinners), babies, etc... FB does have some political posting, but IG very little. And YouTube has virtually nothing political. I never go to the News channel. Its just all sports highlights recommended to me.

messo 6y ago
Your experience exemplifies one of the problems with social media: the radically different information diet served to different users. All of the platforms you mentioned can be profoundly political and filled with extreme content, depending on which rabbit whole you have been exposed to and captivated by. EDIT: I forgot to attempt to answer your actual question, sorry. It's not that the platforms intentionally tries to radicalize you. The algorithms are programed to keep your attention for as long as possible, to keep you engaged and scrolling through your feed. The more time you spend on their platform, there more ads they can show you and the more money they make. The radicalization is largely (I believe) an unintended consequence caused by the fact that recommending and showing you content that engages you emotionally makes you spend more time with them. This can also be exploited by people, groups or even nations who want to propagate a certain message or worldview.