Social media doesn't turn people into assholes, and everyone's wrong about echo (2021)
New research challenges the idea that social media fosters hostility, suggesting it mirrors offline behavior. It may break echo chambers, triggering hostility by exposing diverse opinions intentionally shared to provoke, reflecting societal issues.
Read original article
New research challenges the common belief that social media turns people into hostile individuals. Studies suggest that individuals who exhibit negative behavior offline are likely to display the same behavior online. Contrary to popular belief, social media may actually break down echo chambers by exposing users to diverse viewpoints. This exposure can trigger hostile reactions, not because social media changes behavior, but because it reveals opinions not encountered in everyday life. Additionally, individuals sharing misinformation online may do so intentionally to provoke those with opposing views rather than due to ignorance. The research indicates that social media reflects existing societal issues rather than causing them. It highlights how polarization and rising inequality contribute to the spread of misinformation. Ultimately, the findings suggest that social media is a mirror reflecting deeper societal problems rather than being the root cause.
Related
The hacking of culture and the creation of socio-technical debt
Algorithms shape culture, dividing it into niche groups. "A Hacker Manifesto" by McKenzie Wark discusses hackers' influence on power dynamics, emphasizing free information. Tech giants like Facebook and TikTok wield immense cultural influence, blurring propaganda and personalization boundaries. Corporate dominance in culture hacking alters global power structures, challenging governments' regulatory capacity.
Nobody knows what's going on
Misinformation's impact on beliefs, reliance on unreliable sources, and human tendency to trust comforting information are discussed. Difficulty in discerning truth and consequences of widespread misinformation are highlighted.
Feelings over Facts: Conspiracy Theories and the Internet Novel
The article explores the impact of conspiracy theories on politics and society, emphasizing the need to understand their emotional roots. Authors advocate for listening to concerns and avoiding dismissal, highlighting their role in expressing power dynamics.
Diagonalism, the Cosmic Right and the Conspiracy Smoothie
The concept of "Diagonalism" explores left-to-far-right shifts, challenging labels, blending spiritual beliefs, and rejecting mainstream ideologies. Figures like Naomi Wolf and Russell Brand are highlighted. Global diagonal movements show diverse denialist views, hindering societal progress amid crises.
Social media is a likely cause of confusion in modern mate selection
A sociological study reveals social media confuses modern mate selection, especially for young adults. Women report more uncertainty than men due to dating apps and altered perceptions. Research by Chayan Munshi explores evolving mate selection trends influenced by social media.
3 comments> New Research Shows Social Media Doesn't Turn People Into Assholes (They Already Were), And Everyone's Wrong About Echo Chambers
Related
The hacking of culture and the creation of socio-technical debt
Algorithms shape culture, dividing it into niche groups. "A Hacker Manifesto" by McKenzie Wark discusses hackers' influence on power dynamics, emphasizing free information. Tech giants like Facebook and TikTok wield immense cultural influence, blurring propaganda and personalization boundaries. Corporate dominance in culture hacking alters global power structures, challenging governments' regulatory capacity.
Nobody knows what's going on
Misinformation's impact on beliefs, reliance on unreliable sources, and human tendency to trust comforting information are discussed. Difficulty in discerning truth and consequences of widespread misinformation are highlighted.
Feelings over Facts: Conspiracy Theories and the Internet Novel
The article explores the impact of conspiracy theories on politics and society, emphasizing the need to understand their emotional roots. Authors advocate for listening to concerns and avoiding dismissal, highlighting their role in expressing power dynamics.
Diagonalism, the Cosmic Right and the Conspiracy Smoothie
The concept of "Diagonalism" explores left-to-far-right shifts, challenging labels, blending spiritual beliefs, and rejecting mainstream ideologies. Figures like Naomi Wolf and Russell Brand are highlighted. Global diagonal movements show diverse denialist views, hindering societal progress amid crises.
Social media is a likely cause of confusion in modern mate selection
A sociological study reveals social media confuses modern mate selection, especially for young adults. Women report more uncertainty than men due to dating apps and altered perceptions. Research by Chayan Munshi explores evolving mate selection trends influenced by social media.