Enragement Equals Engagement
Summary
This episode explores how social media algorithms prioritize engagement, often amplifying outrage and misinformation. Host Garrett Graff examines the rise of anti-vaccine movements in California and the role of Facebook in fueling genocide in Myanmar. The narrative traces the evolution from early viral trends to sophisticated manipulation, highlighting the real-world consequences of digital echo chambers.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Online vitriol and the anti-vaccine movement
California's SB 277: Fighting misinformation at public hearings
The viral age: Llamas, the dress, and social division
The birth of Facebook News Feed and user backlash
Algorithmic engagement: Data, ads, and the 'Like' button
Clickbait culture and the rise of emotional content
Echo chambers: How algorithms radicalize users
Myanmar case study: Facebook's role in ethnic violence
Conclusion: Global impact and show credits
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