Why do things seem so extreme?
Logging on to social media can be overwhelming, even on the best days. Logging onto platforms like YouTube, Twitter, or Instagram, it’s easy to be bombarded by content that shows people with strangely extreme views. Why is this? Well, the bottom line is that people are more likely to watch and engage with this type of content because it gets a rise out of people. Another factor in this is also the anonymity of the internet, and the lack of a person immediately in front of them leads people to be more likely to be less civil and more aggressive. Anyone who has posted something that someone disagrees with can notice how fast people resort to name-calling and a stubborn disregard for views.
The obvious but simple fact is that when you engage with content by liking/disliking and commenting on content, the algorithms on these apps/sites will show you more of the same content. If I like or agree with a video with a conservative tilt, I’ll be shown much more conservative content even when I don’t agree with many of those points. When I engage with more liberal and progressive content, the content very quickly swings the opposite way. Now I’d like to believe I’m informed I must go out of my way to check multiple sources to ensure I am.
Why don’t I see balanced content or people with moderate views?
This research study shows the simple fact is people with moderate views don’t post about their opinion for fear of it being used against them or just online harassment. This leaves the apparent space online for the vocal minority of both sides trying to hog the spotlight and work with social media algorithms to boost the attention they receive.
Why do you think extreme views get more attention than moderate ones?
Facebook Post
Why aren’t moderate views ever seen on social media? Are politics getting more extreme? Find out why that is!
Twitter post
Politics aren’t as divisive as they appear to be online. Find out Why
Algonquin College Social Media Certificate Program 