If It Screams It Streams – The Power of Social Media Algorithms

It is ironic that social media platforms that promised to bring us together are fostering so much division. Facebook can be beneficial for staying connected with family and friends, but news and political posts on these sites often get people agitated and perpetuate the polarization cycle.  

If it screams it streams, but if kind pay no mind! That is how social media algorithms function. When you see content that makes you angry or upset, Facebook owner Meta hopes you take the bait and engage; their algorithms favor posts that generate strong emotional reactions, keeping us on line to see more advertisements (and they make more money). It is intentionally designed so more thoughtful posts get fewer views. 

Many are addicted to cell phones. Notifications at all hours demand attention. Even the health website WebMD has recognized this problem, offering online suggestions on “How to Break Your Phone Habit.”  I confess to using a flip phone, having decided that not using a smartphone is better for my health and well-being.

Constantly checking one’s phone, aside from all the time it takes, can push us down a rabbit hole of disinformation and polarization. It is not only our nation that suffers, but so do we as individuals as do our family members and friends.

I am writing a book with the working title Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps You Can Take to Make Our Country Better. I was turned down by a publisher who wrote that books like this, “just don’t seem to be outshouting Truth Social and news channels these days.” I am not dismayed by this challenge and welcome suggestions! 

You can read my full column on this topic at https://read.nhbr.com/nh-business-review#2024/06/07/?article=4231008 

We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, including our own. Don’t underestimate your impact!