Social Media Algorithms Are Rewiring Our Brains and Society
Every day, billions of people open their social media apps, unaware that sophisticated algorithms are working tirelessly to capture their attention, shape their preferences, and keep them scrolling. These invisible digital architects don’t just show us content—they’re actively rewiring our brains and reshaping our society in ways we’re only beginning to understand. The average person now spends nearly 2.5 hours daily on social media, with younger generations spending significantly more. During this time, algorithms learn our deepest preferences, fears, and desires, then serve content that keeps us engaged—often at the cost of our mental health, critical thinking, and social cohesion. How Social Media Algorithms Work While each platform has its secret sauce, most social media algorithms share common principles: Engagement Optimization: Algorithms prioritize content that generates interactions—likes, comments, shares, and time spent. Controversial, emotional, or outrage-inducing content often gets boosted because it drives engagement. Personalization Engines: Using vast amounts of…