Lecture 8 Flashcards
(23 cards)
What is the alternative to algorithmic social media feeds?
Reverse-chronological-order (RCO) feeds.
What percentage of users approve of algorithmic ranking (Reuters 2023)?
Only 30%.
How does switching to an RCO feed affect engagement on Facebook?
It decreases time spent on Facebook by 26%.
What are the three main issues with social media algorithms?
1) Cause negative externalities, 2) Shape tastes, 3) Be biased.
How do algorithms cause externalities?
By promoting misinformation, polarization, and uncivil content.
How do algorithms influence segregation?
They contribute to content homogeneity and like-minded exposure; experimental studies show they are a major driver.
How do Meta’s algorithms compare to RCO in terms of content?
Meta’s algorithm increases uncivil content and reduces untrustworthy content compared to RCO.
What does Reddit’s algorithm appear to do regarding content quality?
It follows demand for both high- and low-quality content.
Is there strong evidence for YouTube pushing users into rabbit holes?
No, most studies show no major shift toward more extreme content during browsing sessions.
When does YouTube recommend extremist content?
Rarely, and mostly when users are already subscribed to extreme channels.
What evidence is there of algorithmic bias on Facebook?
Feeds show less content from out-groups (race/religion) than user preferences indicate.
Are conservative ideas discriminated against on social media platforms?
No systematic evidence; in fact, some platforms amplify right-wing content more.
How does bias manifest differently across platforms?
X (Twitter) amplifies right; Meta flags mostly conservative content; YouTube slightly nudges right.
What are the three channels through which social media impact politics?
1) Exposure to persuasive content, 2) Facilitating coordination, 3) Shifting perceptions.
Give an example of persuasive content improving public outcomes.
ECB’s use of Twitter increases moderate and factual understanding among non-experts.
How can social media facilitate coordination for political mobilization?
By spreading beliefs about others’ participation (e.g., Arab Spring, Russian protests).
How can social media shift perceptions?
By softening or intensifying stigma, such as increasing hate crimes or reducing xenophobia.
How has Facebook expansion affected protests?
Caused more protests, especially with a U-shaped pattern depending on democracy level.
What are findings on voter turnout from social media?
Mixed: no effect in the US (2020), large effects in Mexico when informed about corruption.
What is the link between toxic content and violence?
Strong evidence: social media exposure has led to hate crimes in the US and Germany.
Do platform penalties help reduce harm?
Yes, large penalties reduce violent consequences from toxic content.
How much does the algorithm matter?
It strongly affects engagement and content exposure, though most harms are limited but not zero.
What are social impacts of social media?
They aid information, organization, and movements but can also normalize stigma and violence.
