Social media is reshaping how we see politics, each other and even reality itself.
Let’s look at the research and gain some insight into how our democracy and communities could do better (thread) ⬇️
#USPolitics #socialmedia
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Social media is reshaping how we see politics, each other and even reality itself.
Let’s look at the research and gain some insight into how our democracy and communities could do better (thread) ⬇️
#USPolitics #socialmedia
The Conversation U.S.
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •Tech companies do have the ability to cool things down instead of making the algorithm heat them up! Down-ranking polarizing posts (just pushing them lower in timelines) “measurably lowered partisan animosity.”
People felt less hostile when they saw fewer inflammatory posts.
buff.ly/sNpUJnU
The Conversation U.S.
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •Meanwhile if you’re using TikTok, you might be walking deeper into a political echo-chamber.
Data shows TikTok users “tend to follow accounts that align with their political beliefs,” and especially right-leaning communities on TikTok are more tightly insulated from opposing views.
buff.ly/RATWVhH
The Conversation U.S.
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •An important reminder when relationships feel extra hostile:
People you disagree with politically aren’t as bad as you think.
Misunderstandings, assumptions and selective exposure can make people seem more extreme than they are.
buff.ly/JnBWrcH
The Conversation U.S.
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •The persistence of the “chemtrail” conspiracy theory (revived by Tucker Carlson) offers a cautionary tale: misleading narratives spread when people lack critical context — and when conspiracy-friendly messages are amplified by algorithm or media attention.
buff.ly/ixw5Trf
The Conversation U.S.
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •It’s also important that we all adopt better habits with our cell phones – digital hygiene, if you will.
Because our mental/emotional state is shaped not only by what we see, but how much we consume.
buff.ly/vtHDBBX
The Conversation U.S.
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •Social media doesn’t have to be a battleground.
A few reminders to have a healthier, happier experience:
- Engage the algorithm in a way that doesn’t reward outrage or extreme content.
- Follow and engage with people outside your usual circle (or at least give lesser-heard voices a chance).
- Monitor your screen time and your emotional health.
- Be skeptical of sensational or conspiratorial claims. Pause. Reflect. Check facts.
Good luck out there 🙃
Tim Zee
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •Darwin Woodka
in reply to The Conversation U.S. • • •Sorry, the rights of my kids to exist as who they are and love who they love are neither controversial or negotiable.
Bigots, racists, misogynists, etc. can fuck the hell off.
That is not a "political disagreement".