How social media algorithms warp our perceptions

Companies such as Meta, which owns Facebook, rely on algorithms to control the flow of social information people see. Algorithms determine in part which messages, which people and which ideas social media users see. (AP file)

People’s daily interactions with online algorithms affect how they learn from others, with negative consequences including social misperceptions, conflict and the spread of misinformation, my colleagues and I have found.

People are increasingly interacting with others in social media environments where algorithms control the flow of social information they see. Algorithms determine in part which messages, which people and which ideas social media users see.