The Social Media Vaccine Debate

This chapter examines how social media algorithms shape public perception, particularly around vaccination, by analyzing data and personal experiences during a measles outbreak in California. It highlights the rapid spread of misinformation fueled by targeted content, the transition from traditional media gatekeeping to a chaotic online environment, and the implications for public discourse. The speakers emphasize the urgent need for moderation strategies that prioritize authenticity to combat sensationalism while fostering free expression.