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Facebook Whistleblower/ Algorithyms


There is no doubt that social media, and in this case, Facebook play a major role in society and politics in the U.S. Many feel as though Facebook oversteps and becomes too involved in politics and that they should not, while others appreciate the involvement that Facebook has in politics in the U.S. Social media definitely has some positive aspects, as it helps connects millions of people worldwide and brings attention to global events and social causes and injustices quickly, however Facebook’s use of algorithms are causing many division in our country and are very problematic to our politics and society. The use of algorithms by Facebook was mentioned last year by whistleblower and former Facebook employee, and the company knows that the use of algorithms is causing many negative consequences. The company was accused of placing profit over the well being of individuals who use Facebook (and other social media.)

According to the former employee, Facebook knows that hate speech and misinformation are being spread on Facebook, but that the company still allowed them to occur, “A new whistleblower affidavit submitted by a former Facebook employee Friday alleges that the company prizes growth and profits over combating hate speech, misinformation and other threats to the public.” Ultimately, Frances Haugen went before Congress, stating that Facebook should be subjected to supervision by the federal government and that federal government should provide repercussions to Facebook. Ultimately, I believe that Facebook should be held accountable to “turning a blind eye” to the frequent spread of misinformation, manipulative use of algorithms, and allowing hate speech on its platform to occur, knowing the negative consequences that have occurred because of this.

 Washington Post

Comments

  1. StephanieApril 25, 2022 at 10:25 PM

    Facebook his had such an interesting run in politics. Regulation on misinformation is going to be very difficult and likely bad for profits. There is likely that the companies will not be held accountable. I am very invested on the future of Twitter now that Musk has bought the company. Great post.

    ReplyDelete

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About Me.....

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Melissa N
Hello everyone, my name is Melissa Clopein. I am a senior at Kennesaw State University, my major is Political Science with a minor in International Relations. In my free time I enjoy cooking, hiking, traveling, and learning as much as I can about different countries and their cultures. Ever since I was old enough to truly understand politics, I have been interested in international relations and politics. In addition, I have also been extremely interested in how media influences politics and the relationship between the two, which is a major reason I am taking this class. I intend to use this blog to focus on some important topics relating specifically to mass media and politics. I think an important topic to address is the common occurrence of biases in media, extremism from the left and the right, and how both sides contribute to political polarity in U.S citizens.