How Social Media Algorithm Works (With CHIARA ZAMBRANO)

Summary

In this video, Chiara Zambrano explores the concept of algorithms on social media, explaining how they personalize content based on user behavior, search history, and personal information. She discusses the phenomenon of 'filter bubbles,' where algorithms limit exposure to diverse perspectives, potentially leading to misinformation. To break free from these bubbles, Chiara suggests being cautious with cookies, using VPNs, maintaining an open mind, and fact-checking information. The video is part of the Media and Information Literacy Project of UP Diliman.

Takeaways

• 🤔 Social media algorithms curate content based on user behavior, making it seem like they can read your mind.
• 🔍 Algorithms use search history, personal information, online shopping habits, and platform usage to personalize content.
• 🎧 Like a DJ, algorithms 'listen' to your preferences and select content accordingly.
• 👀 Your online actions are monitored to inform the algorithm about your interests.
• 📊 Personal details provided during app sign-ups and privacy settings contribute to the algorithm's understanding of you.
• 🛍️ Online shopping patterns are analyzed to predict and display ads and content that match your preferences.
• 🌐 The platforms you use and how you engage with them influence the type of content the algorithm shows you.
• 🌪️ Algorithms can create 'filter bubbles' where you only see content that aligns with your existing beliefs.
• 🗳️ Filter bubbles can lead to a limited worldview, affecting how you perceive events like elections and beauty pageants.
• 🚫 To avoid filter bubbles, be cautious with cookies, use a VPN, maintain an open mind, and practice fact-checking.

Q & A

What is an algorithm in the context of social media?

An algorithm is a computer program used by websites and applications to filter or sort the content visible to users, ensuring that the posts you see align with your interests.

How does an algorithm personalize your social media feed?

An algorithm personalizes your feed by monitoring your online behavior, such as search history, the details you provide when signing up for applications, your online shopping habits, and the platforms you use.

Why do social media algorithms use our search history?

Social media algorithms use your search history to display posts and content related to what you've searched for, aiming to show you information that aligns with your interests.

What role do the details we provide during app sign-ups play in algorithmic content selection?

The details like age, address, and gender that you provide during app sign-ups, along with your privacy settings, grant applications permission to collect and utilize your personal information to tailor content.

How can online shopping habits influence the content shown to us on social media?

Online shopping habits can be used by applications to understand your preferences, leading to targeted ads and content related to the items you frequently buy or show interest in.

What is a 'filter bubble' and how does it affect our social media experience?

A 'filter bubble' is a result of algorithms filtering what we see on social media based on our interests and behaviors, potentially limiting our exposure to diverse perspectives and information.

How can being in a filter bubble influence our beliefs and opinions?

Being in a filter bubble can lead to a confirmation bias, where we are only exposed to information that aligns with our existing beliefs, potentially leading to a distorted view of reality.

What are some ways to avoid getting trapped in a filter bubble?

To avoid a filter bubble, one can be mindful of accepting cookies, use a VPN to access diverse content, maintain an open mind to different viewpoints, and practice fact-checking.

Why is it important to be cautious about accepting cookies on websites?

Accepting cookies can allow websites to track your online activities, which can be used to influence algorithms and show you targeted ads, potentially contributing to a filter bubble.

How can using a VPN help in breaking free from a filter bubble?

Using a VPN can prevent websites from profiling your browsing habits and allow you to access region-specific content, thus exposing you to a wider range of perspectives and information.

What is the significance of fact-checking in the context of social media algorithms?

Fact-checking is crucial to avoid the spread of misinformation within filter bubbles. It encourages users to question the legitimacy of content and seek out accurate information.