Algorithm-mediated social learning in online social networks

William J. Brady, Joshua Conrad Jackson, Björn Lindström, M. J. Crockett

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

32 Scopus citations

Abstract

Human social learning is increasingly occurring on online social platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok. On these platforms, algorithms exploit existing social-learning biases (i.e., towards prestigious, ingroup, moral, and emotional information, or ‘PRIME’ information) to sustain users’ attention and maximize engagement. Here, we synthesize emerging insights into ‘algorithm-mediated social learning’ and propose a framework that examines its consequences in terms of functional misalignment. We suggest that, when social-learning biases are exploited by algorithms, PRIME information becomes amplified via human–algorithm interactions in the digital social environment in ways that cause social misperceptions and conflict, and spread misinformation. We discuss solutions for reducing functional misalignment, including algorithms promoting bounded diversification and increasing transparency of algorithmic amplification.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)947-960
Number of pages14
JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences
Volume27
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2023

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
  • Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience

Keywords

  • algorithms
  • norms
  • social learning
  • social media
  • social networks

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