N@N

What is a social media algorithm and why are they controversial?

The article from LBC explains the role and impact of algorithms in social media. Algorithms are essentially sets of rules or instructions that social media platforms use to decide what content users see in their feeds. These algorithms analyze user behavior, such as likes, shares, comments, and time spent on posts, to tailor content that aligns with individual interests, aiming to increase user engagement. The article discusses how these algorithms can create echo chambers, where users are predominantly exposed to similar viewpoints, potentially leading to polarization. It also touches on the ethical concerns, including privacy issues and the manipulation of information, as well as the business model behind these algorithms which focuses on keeping users online longer to serve more ads. The piece highlights the complexity of these systems, which are often opaque to the public, and the ongoing debate about regulation and transparency in how social media companies manage content distribution.

Read the Full LBC Article at:
[ https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/explained/what-is-algorithm-social-media/ ]