Algorithms

With advancements in technology, algorithms have become a pillar to the functioning of businesses. With the use of algorithms efficiency and exposure of personalized content is significantly increased utilizing various factors such as proximity, popularity, and the digital footprint of individual users. However, with growing applications regarding algorithms, there are many consequences and implications that must be considered such as lack of employment or increasing societal polarization. In addition to discussing the benefits and consequences, the future potential of algorithms is also discussed to gain insight as to the extent that algorithms can be used for.

## Foundational Understanding of Algorithms

As technology has continued to advance within the digital space, efficiency and efficacy have become necessary. As a result, algorithms have been developed and utilized for directing users to various digital spaces that hold similar values. However, it is crucial to understand that despite algorithms functioning similarly, the goals of each algorithm vary based on the intended goal. For example, Instagram’s algorithm aims to promote user interaction with the content presented, hence providing a like and share function. LinkedIn on the other hand aims to help the user develop connections through networking, which is unlike social media where the motive is to build a following[4]. In addition to promoting user interaction with a particular digital space, platforms utilize proximity and popularity as additional factors taken into consideration by the algorithm to maximize platform usage [3].

## Benefits/Consequences of Algorithms

Algorithms while promoting efficiency and efficacy of digital platforms are associated with many other benefits such as editing online databases, discovering new medications, and coordinating events without human intervention. While consisting of many avenues of implementation, algorithms lack reasoning and human morals, to the point where everything will become binary and no longer leave room for discussion[5]. Algorithms utilize statistics and require conditions to be met, and when using such statistics in critical situations such as sentencing someone legally or determining medication for patients. This is because the statistics collected while being plenty, continue to consist of unfair bias towards certain populations. Algorithms also have the ability to essentially take over a majority of businesses and tasks currently done by people, allowing for automation of various industries or greatly reducing the amount of work that individuals have to do. However, there were concerns mentioned that if algorithms replace jobs that individuals do, unemployment rates will increase and the economy will decrease. While this is a possibility, it is unlikely to occur. This is because codes that makeup algorithms follow a strict formula that is based on conditions and statements within the code being met, therefore providing itself as a medium for people to complete work efficiently. Algorithms would be able to determine calculations, patterns, and assist with research processes, including analyzing a large pool of data without human intervention. People however would have to continue setting up experiments and completing other transactions such as negotiating deals in business. Furthermore,  algorithms will need to be updated and adjusted, which requires experts in respective fields. This in turn shows that the use of algorithms is not something to be afraid of, but instead more strategic about it. To simplify the concern of algorithms overtaking jobs, an analogy would be beneficial[6]. This is analogous to paper and the computer. Today a computer can do so many things that a paper cannot, calculations through Excel, spellcheck, and format text, however, these enhancements in technology have not replaced paper, which is used daily by countless individuals.

## The digital divide and algorithms

In today’s world advanced technology offers a variety of pros to it especially for the spread of information locally and internationally. However, a huge factor that prevents the spread of information for many individuals/communities is the digital divide. Algorithms can be experienced in the digital media by internet users when exposed to certain sites for news and social media.. however, when the access to the internet is not available individuals/communities are not even able to understand what algorithms are. It is known that, “..in emerging economies, especially in rural or remote areas, more than four billion people still remain unconnected to the internet” (Facebook, 2016). This fact suggests that the lack of accessibility and affordability for network connections, technology devices,  software and application continues to be an issue. For this reason it is essential to consider contributing to filling the gap for the spread of information to be accessible; such as providing the proper infrastructure and services in the poorest areas locally and of developed countries, and also considering that physical access to technology devices is not enough to bridge this gap, since other conditions include also thinking about how individuals will have better access to the digital spread of information by thinking of  digital literacy and also developing necessary conditions for better digital technology knowledge and competence.

## Politics and the News

The way algorithms expose us to news about politics is by determining if we as users are considered politically active. If the algorithms decide a user is not politically active then it, in turn, will not show or display updates that have to do with a political nature. For example, if there were to be a capital riot, someone that was politically active based on the terms of the algorithm would see something eye-catching and provocative like "Breaking News". Another thing that can happen with algorithms and new is if you are deemed not politically active then the algorithm may go as far as not showing you posts from pages you follow that are seen as political.

Furthermore, the main way that algorithms achieve higher engagement is by showing users articles and posts that reinforce their own beliefs. This can create what is called an echo chamber where all users see are articles and posts that reinforce their viewpoint. With that being said, one of the only ways to see the other side of an argument is by actively searching for the other viewpoint. One of the main ways we can see this is when it comes to the matter of race. For example, when it comes to poll numbers about policing or equality people of color feel vastly different than people who are predominately white. This mainly happens because they are not seeing the same information about the topics. An additional tool that is being utilized is bots. Bots look at crucial information and use it to come to a conclusion on what individuals believe. For instance, bots can gather data on what political party they believe you to be a part of and much more.

Not only do algorithms take into account whether you are politically active or not, but it also takes into account which political party you more closely relate to. For instance, these echo chambers, as discussed above, will filter your news feed to fit your political viewpoint. For someone who is a Republican, it will mostly show them Fox news articles and for someone who is a Democrat, their news feed will be filled with articles from Huffington Post. This is because certain news organizations can be more left or right-leaning.

A study done by Zvelo illustrates how different news sources tend to lean towards one political party compared to the other. They analyzed different news sources that are known to be biased towards one end of the political spectrum and compared the top news stories that were shown on their news pages for a specific day. They found that there was no overlap of the same news stories that were displayed on both news sites. This study shows how we must be aware of the places we find our news because it could not be telling us the full story. The news sources used in this example are known for being biased. When seeking out information you should turn to news sources that are unbiased such as The Washington Post, NPR, or The New York Times.

Furthermore, the continuous opinion dynamics model of bounded confidence, which studied the effects of what happens when individuals are consistently exposed to similar opinions and content from others in the community, determined that opinion fragmentation increased in regard to the topic that was being discussed. Using the model to determine what the impact of opinion fragmentation is on human interaction, it was statistically indicated that people became more secluded and opinionated toward their own belief while acting aggressively towards others trying to convince otherwise. Individuals would also limit interactions to members of the community who held the same beliefs and values that best aligned with the individual's thought, resulting in a more polarized environment as a whole. While algorithms promote user engagement by analyzing user patterns and suggesting content based on proximity, popularity, and user interactions there are consequences to the process. By having algorithms continuing to positively reinforce the opinions users have, this leads to more social polarization when discussing topics such as politics. This further results in people siding with a certain party or standpoint regarding a topic resulting in limited exposure to a variety of perspectives or increased hindrance to accepting the opposite views[7].

## Utilizing Algorithms and Preventing Societal Polarization

Some benefits that algorithms have in society currently are that if utilized correctly on digital platforms, algorithms allow individuals with few connections to promote businesses such as blogs or profiles to gain following when trying to convey a message. For instance, the use of hashtags on Instagram can be used to ensure that the algorithm is able to suggest the content produced by one individual is able to reach many other people with who one may not have a direct connection. The algorithm would essentially utilize the same functions and if multiple people are being exposed or actively searching for specific content that is in the hashtag and relating to the business, most likely the business will appear on the “Discover Page” or “For You Page” of Reels, a function similar to Tik Tok [8]. Some ways that individuals can further utilize algorithms is by asking questions to promote people to interact with the posts, optimizing posting time and frequency, variation in post content such as including videos, and finally measuring analytics collected through algorithms.

Algorithms also allow for more efficiency when participating in a digital space to experience personal growth as opportunities to gain some level of expertise within ourselves towards a specific topic is achieved. This is because it provides similar content that would benefit our foundational understanding while presenting a variety of perspectives toward the topic of interest[9]. Often when using digital platforms, people tend to focus on one perspective that most resonates with themselves, which is then reinforced by algorithms. However, to effectively work against social polarization and gain complete understanding of a given topic, hence working against algorithms, it is crucial that individuals when exposing themselves to sensitive topics, that they gather information from multiple sources in order to gain a holistic perspective about algorithms and avoid a biased perspective from developing, much like what is developed through filter bubbles.

Due to algorithms, the user experience has become less authentic. Leaving much of what we consume up to algorithms and the resulting echo chambers has created a contest of the most popular content often promoting mainsteam opinions. This greatly influences our digital identity an into our true identity, imposing less unique people with similar ideals and goals. This can have significant and lasting implications on one’s well being so one needs to be aware of algorithms when present.

## Algorithms and Social Media

The body positivity movement has become increasingly more widespread due to social media. Apps such as TikTok and Instagram have helped to challenge beauty ideals and standards by welcoming diversity in appearance and size. However, often times we see dangerous and negative content alongside the positivity. Specifically, TikTok has struggled with dangerous eating disorder promotion material for a while now, leading it to block content labeled under certain hashtags.

For those that are unfamiliar, TikTok is a social media app that features short videos that can range from humorous and entertaining to useful and more serious. The app features two pages: one for accounts that you follow and one for random accounts labeled the "for you page". This page uses algorithms to create and curate content that TikTok thinks that you would enjoy. They look at your recent search history, other videos that you like or interact with, and some believe that the app is actually listening to you. Thus, the content that is on your for you page is supposed to be tailored to your humor, interests, likes, and dislikes. However, you cannot physically control what pops up on your page. Thus, often times you will come across a video that you dislike or is even triggering to you in someway.

This is where body positivity, body image issues, and eating disorders come into play. Many accounts on TikTok post content that helps people that are struggling with their confidence and body image such as body positivity or eating disorder recovery videos. However, there are accounts that have been found to promote and encourage eating disorders and disordered behavior. This type of content can be extremely triggering for those that are at risk of, have recovered from, or are currently in recovery for eating disorders. The struggle is ensuring that this content does not appear on these people's pages. Thus, algorithms have become extremely relevant in the body positivity movement because using them can help to prevent the spread of dangerous content.

Recently, TikTokers who use well-known pro-ed search terms have been directed to a support page titled “Need Help?”.  However, TikTok was, and still is, looking for a more definitive, long-term solution for the harmful pro-anorexia content that is still easily searchable despite measures taken by the social media company to prohibit weight-loss product advertising. TikTok said that they had taken action to ban harmful phrases across all search verticals and banned six accounts flagged for violating community guidelines. However, they acknowledged that removing content was tricky because some accounts might be pro-recovery.

All in all, algorithms can be difficult with this type of content because many people may deem pro-recovery videos useful. However, the algorithms don't always establish and difference between that content and content that promotes eating disorders. Thus, algorithms, in this way, can be extremely dangerous to the health and safety of many people.

Recently, Instagram revealed that the platform's algorithm prefers content that doesn't appear to be Photoshopped and has banned "plastic surgery" filters in an attempt to make the platform a "Healthier environment, particularly for impressionable individuals." Furthermore, according to Jennifer Allbaugh, Vice President of the Adult Performers Actors Guild, who is also a member of the Instagram team, confirms that the social media platform's algorithm detects photos featuring over "60% skin". However, Instagram's algorithm favors fit users and disproportionately censors of "larger-bodied influencers'" accounts. According to Carina, "The same content can be seen on a fat person and a skinny person, but on a fat person it is deemed pornographic, and on a skinny person it is allowed." This algorithm negatively affects not only the emotional-welling being of influencers, but also has a negative impact on their livelihood. Overall, individuals fear that Instagram's algorithm won't allow users to fully showcase themselves as they truly are and therefore, can't live their own self-expressed lives. Therefore, Instagram's algorithm is a primary example of how algorithms can negatively affect an individual's Body Image, leading to further complications such as eating disorders and mental health concerns.

Algorithms can also be helpful when looking to avoid and protect yourself from negative body image and eating disorder content. There are a couple of simple techniques you can implement to try and swing algorithms in your favor. One of the most basic and easiest ways to avoid negative content is to unfollow accounts and people that impact you badly. By unfollowing these accounts the algorithm learns what you are not interested in and avoids sending you post made by these accounts and similar accounts in the future. Furthermore, by doing this the algorithm also takes note of the accounts you continue to follow and interact with and continues to send you content related to that. On a similar note, the next technique to swaying the algorithm to send you more positive content is to follow accounts that encourage and interest you. This way the algorithm is more likely to truly adapt your page to your needs and interest. Lastly, a third technique, unrelated to algorithms, is to frequently do a reality check when scrolling through social media. It is easy to get caught up in everyone's "perfect" life or become obsessed with trying to obtain their "perfect" bodies, but it is important to remember that a majority of posted photos are highly-edited and filtered to perfection. It is crucial to remind yourself that these images are unrealistic and that comparing yourself to them will damage you confidence unless a reality check is taken and realization occurs that these pictures are not accurate. Overall, using techniques to help push the algorithm on to the positive side of social media is a great way to avoid negative content and influencers while receiving content that interest you.

## Bots

Bots are automated software applications that are programmed to fulfill many tasks. Many bots can be useful, such as chatbots which are typically used for customer support and social media bots that can provide services like weather updates. However, not all bots are considered good. Many bots can be considered malicious. These types of bots typically post a lot of spam and are able to slow down a website that people are trying to access. Malicious bots can also be responsible for click fraud, identity theft, and credential stuffing.

So how can we spot these malicious bots? One way to tell if you have encountered a bot on social media is to look at the language. If it seems to be very formulaic and repetitive, then it is very possible that you have just encountered a bot. Bots are able to mimic human behavior, but they have not mastered our language. Another way to tell if you have just encountered a bot is to look at how often they post. If the account you are looking at seems to post at a very high rate then it is likely you have found a bot.

Knowing how to spot a bot is important, but it can be just as beneficial to know to protect yourself from bots. One thing you can do is get an antivirus tool or a firewall that will identify the bot and block it from doing any damage. Keeping your systems up to date is another effective thing you can do because it gets rid of any loopholes that bots can find to mess with your system. Be aware of suspicious emails that you receive, because many times it could be a bot sending spam your way. Using two-factor identification is also effective because if a bot attempts to use your password another authentication factor will prevent it from actually getting in.

Bots can be especially harmful to research, especially when the research study uses online surveys. When doing online research, a common issue that arises is that most of the responses received are from bots, resulting in low quality data. The research must then go through and sort through the responses to get rid of ones answered by bots, which can be very time consuming. Thankfully, there are a couple of methods you can use to try and prevent bots sabotaging research such as including open ended questions and tracking for unusual responses. Including attention or logic checks and adding redundancy to your survey could also be very effective.

Knowing what bots are and how you can identify and protect yourself from malicious bots can be very helpful for your future, as you can save yourself from a lot of the harm that they can do. Encountering bots is almost unavoidable, so taking precautions will benefit you in the long run.

## Future of Algorithms

As algorithms continue to progress and automate various aspects of business and digital platforms, there are growing possibilities with the technology. One such possibility is advancements within the medical field. Currently algorithms are used to analyze large pools of medical information which is oftentimes tedious to do manually and given large variations in data, statisticians and scientists are not able to statistically test the data and determine adequate results utilizing traditional practices. With further implementation of algorithms would allow for information to be classified and timely decisions about diagnosis and treatment to be made. Additionally, using algorithms that can compile and analyze large amounts of variation at once can provide patterns of risk for a given population previously not determined[10]. The implementation and research of algorithmic use has been an emerging field known as metaheuristic algorithm development, which originated in 1980 to evaluate the cost of healthcare and guide acute cases patients faced.

With advancements in technology and understanding of algorithms, advanced diagnosis of conditions is now possible by enabling technologies such as MRI and computers to analyze multiple components at once, while simultaneously providing medical providers with relevant information for efficient medical treatment[11]. In regard to further advancements, algorithms could potentially allow in the near future medical teams to compare treatment options and correlate best practices for individual patients using a pool of information already collected throughout the country[12]. This would not only lead to more efficient provision of care, but also enable more personalized and understandable treatments that may have originally not been used. Algorithms could also allow for further understanding in regard to prominent diseases and how they are correlated to diseases, age, and background. Use of algorithms could also provide the ability to have self adapting algorithms that carry out procedures that would otherwise need human intervention to process and execute best action to achieve a set outcome.

## The Manual of Algorithms

With growing dependence on technology, algorithms are continuing to be developed to allow for more efficient and effective utilization of the internet. Algorithms consider various factors when trying to predict favorable content for the user such as location, popularity of content, and consideration of previous digital footprint. While many algorithms appear to function similarly, many algorithms are specialized to fulfill a specific goal such as promoting user interaction on digital media platforms. For this to be completed, users are consistently introduced to information that most directly relates to personal opinions and values. However, while efficiency is increased, there are many consequences associated with this process. The primary one being societal polarization. As people continue to absorb information that is most conveniently introduced to them without actively searching for multiple perspectives or viewpoints, often times this positive reinforcement leads to individuals becoming trapped in their filter bubbles, which is essentially a fixed and limited mindset regarding their beliefs. Such a mindset collectively leads to societal polarization where individuals become hesitant in accepting flaws with their current beliefs or benefits of opposing perspectives. To counteract such a bias from internally forming it is crucial that individuals actively search for various sources when developing an opinion regarding a topic such as politics. This not only allows for a more holistic understanding that can deepen the depth of conversation but allows for open conversation with multiple individuals with varying views rather than arguments, which was noticed through the continuous opinion dynamics model of bounded confidence.

1. ↑ https://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2016/07/24/486941582/the-reason-your-feed-became-an-echo-chamber-and-what-to-do-about-it
2. ↑ https://zvelo.com/gatekeeper-bias-impact-on-news-content/
3. ↑ "Cameron Wilson". "TikTok Is Filled With Pro-Eating Disorder Content, Despite Its Own Rules." *BuzzFeed,* Buzzfeed, 18 Feb. 2020, www.buzfeed.com/cameronwilson/tiktok-eating-disorder-videos-algorithm-for-you-page.
4. ↑ Dishman, L. (2019, October 15). This is the impact of instagram's ACCIDENTAL FAT-PHOBIC algorithm. Retrieved May 06, 2021, from https://www.fastcompany.com/90415917/this-is-the-impact-of-instagrams-accidental-fat-phobic-algorithm
5. ↑ Birmingham-Reyes, Christy. "Social Media and Body Image: How to Protect Yourself." *When Women Inspire,* 16 Apr. 2021, whenwomeninspire.com/2021/20/01/social-media-and-body-image/. [1]

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