Social Network Algorithms Are Distorting Reality By Boosting Conspiracy Theories

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Craig Good

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May 11, 2016, 9:19:45 PM5/11/16
to Ipse Dixit
Here's part of why the crazies seem to be getting crazier.

Join an anti-vaccine group, and your suggestions will include anti-GMO, chemtrail watch, flat Earther (yes, really), and "curing cancer naturally" groups. Rather than pulling a user out of the rabbit hole, the recommendation engine pushes them further in.

 I'm completely willing to believe that Facebook (which I trust no further than I can throw a hippo) suppresses conservative posts. I have much less confidence in their ability to correctly recognize one. But, that aside, there is a discussion to be had about on-line ethics.


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