Left To Their Own Devices A Tale of Two Algorithms
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Sep 26, 2025 
CeCe Neltner, a young woman whose struggle with an eating disorder was exacerbated by harmful Instagram algorithms, shares her harrowing journey. In contrast, Keira MacDuff, a teen whose chronic illness went undiagnosed for years, credits TikTok with leading her to a life-changing diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Ethan Zuckerman, a communications professor, breaks down how recommendation algorithms impact users, highlighting their dual power to harm and heal, and emphasizes the need for greater transparency and responsibility from social media platforms.
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TikTok Led To A Diagnosis
- Keira MacDuff found likely causes for mysterious injuries by watching TikTok videos about chronic illnesses and diagnostic criteria.
- She used what she learned to push doctors and eventually received a life-changing hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos diagnosis.
Algorithms Create Feedback Loops
- Social media recommendation algorithms amplify content similar to what users engage with, deepening exposure over time.
- This feedback loop can both uncover helpful communities and intensify harmful material.
Algorithm Fueled An Eating Disorder
- CeCe Neltner started following weight-loss content on Instagram at 12 and developed severe disordered eating driven by thinspiration and fitness tips.
- Her condition escalated to hospitalization, feeding tubes, and repeated residential treatment as her body and mental health deteriorated.