Consider This from NPR Social Media Affects Opinions, But Not the Way You Might Think
Dec 11, 2023
Social media is often thought to change opinions, but research reveals a twist. Active engagement can solidify existing beliefs rather than shift them. Polarizing topics like abortion and elections see spirited debates, yet few minds are changed. Studies show that social media metrics like likes and retweets have little impact on public opinion about critical issues. Additionally, platforms can discourage genuine dialogue, reinforcing division instead of bridging gaps. It's a complex world of online interaction that merits deeper understanding.
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Social Media's Limited Persuasion
- Social media posts rarely change people's minds about political candidates or hot-button issues.
- Three studies by Pan and Guess found negligible impacts on voting choices despite manipulating algorithms and content exposure.
Likes Don't Equal Persuasion
- Even on less polarized topics, social media's influence on opinions is minimal.
- Morales's study on COVID-19 policies found that likes and retweets didn't significantly sway opinions.
Posting vs. Reading
- Simply reading social media posts rarely changes minds.
- Interacting, posting, and receiving feedback, however, can significantly shift one's own views.
