WEBINAR "SOCIAL MEDIA AND POLARIZATION"
As part of the "Democracy Talks" series, the New Vision University School of Politics and Diplomacy is hosting a webinar "Social Media and Polarization".
The webinar consists of a 15 minute presentation and a 15 minute Q&A session. Live transmission of the webinar will be available via NVU Facebook page or Youtube channel.
Presenter: Jacob Paul Reid, Associate Professor at New Vision University
Facilitator: Gvantsa Abdaladze, Associate Professor at New Vision University
Time: 15 December, 18:00
Language: English
Social media are designed to bring people together but sometimes can contribute to polarization and fragmentation of a society. The algorithms underlying much of social media are designed to maximize screen time—and, therefore, advertising income—by suggesting videos, news, friends, and groups compatible with users’ interests and worldviews. By prioritizing user comfort over the presentation of counter-perspectives, social media tend to facilitate “echo chambers”—insulated groups that resist data contrary to their convictions. Social media thus lead to polarization, shrinking the stabilizing, moderate majority. In the worst cases, social media sites can even contribute to radicalization. Social media users should be aware of the values embedded in the algorithms that shape their online experiences and make extra efforts to form relationships with people of diverse viewpoints, both on- and offline. Users should also communicate via social media with respect and humanity, in line with democratic values.