Techmeme Ride Home (TWTR SPC) Facebook's Fortnight Of Controversy
Sep 25, 2021
Join Justin Hendrix, a tech policy expert, Paul Barrett, a business and human rights advocate, and Emily Tevalerius, a social impact fellow, as they dive into Facebook's recent controversies. They discuss how social media fuels political polarization and its role in events like January 6th. The trio explores the tensions between free expression and accountability on platforms, pushing for better regulation and transparency in the tech landscape. Get insights into the urgent need for reform and the future of decentralized social media.
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Polarization's Complexity
- Political polarization is a complex issue, not inherently bad, and can even sharpen policy debates.
- However, extreme partisan hatred, or "affective polarization," can erode trust, undermine facts, and even incite violence.
Social Media as Accelerant
- Social media amplifies existing societal divisions, particularly racial animus, rather than being the primary cause.
- It exacerbates polarization by exposing people to differing viewpoints and fueling animosity.
Trump & Social Media Manipulation
- Donald Trump's mastery of social media, using a bombastic communication style, further intensified political polarization.
- Facebook capitalized on this increased engagement, prioritizing growth over potential negative consequences.