Social media was once seen as a tool to connect the world. It promised to bring people closer, share ideas, and create a global community. But today, it has become one of the strongest forces driving us apart. From political polarization to online outrage, social media has changed how we communicate, think, and interact with one another. This article explores how social media divides us, why it happens, and what we can do to fix it.
The Rise of Polarization:
Polarization is nothing new. It has been a part of the human experience for thousands of years. But social media has made it worse than ever before. Yesterday, people relied on one or two trusted sources such as newspapers and television channels to know what was going on in the world. Today, news is framed for us by algorithms which prioritize engagement over accuracy.
For instance, during the 2020 U.S. presidential election, social media was filled with conflicting narratives, fake news, and extreme viewpoints. This created an environment where people were more divided than ever. Protests, uprisings, and heated debates became the norm, both online and offline.
Why Are We So Divided?
1. Tribal Instincts:
Humans are tribal by nature. We evolved to live in communities that often competed with others. That instinct helped us survive in the past, but in today’s world, it can lead to conflict. Social media taps into these tribal instincts by creating “us vs. them” dynamics.
2. The Outrage Machine:
Social media platforms are designed to keep us engaged. The more time we spend online, the more money we make. They achieve this by showing us content that provokes strong emotions, especially outrage. Posts that make us angry or upset are more likely to go viral, creating a cycle of negativity.
3. Supernormal Stimuli:
This term, “supernormal stimuli,” biologists use to define things that can trigger exaggerated responses. For example, junk food is a supernormal stimulus to our taste buds. Fake news and sensational headlines are supernormal stimuli to our emotions. It is meant to provoke outrage in us, although the content does not have the slightest chance of being true or relevant.
How Social Media Exacerbates Polarization:
1. Algorithms and Echo Chambers:
Social media algorithms feed us information that makes sense according to what we believe. This creates echo chambers where we see only opinions that reinforce our stance. Some believe that the opposite effects can be achieved by exposing users to opposing views, but studies show that this usually makes polarization worse. We caricature and dismiss the other side of the argument instead of understanding it.
2. Bots and Fake Accounts:
Fake accounts and bots are an important factor in spreading misinformation. Divisive content is amplified through them, which creates the impression that extreme opinions are widespread. This makes it difficult for many to distinguish real from fake.
3. Outrage Addiction:
Expressing outrage online often leads to positive feedback, such as likes and shares. This encourages people to post more inflammatory content, creating a habit of outrage. Over time, this makes it harder for society to focus on real issues and work toward solutions.
The Consequences of Division:
1. Loss of Focus:
When everything is outrage-worthy, nothing is. Minor issues divert our attention from major systemic issues that need to be addressed. This makes it harder to solve critical challenges such as climate change, inequality, and healthcare.
2. Erosion of Trust:
Polarization erodes trust in institutions, media, and even each other. When people can’t agree on basic facts, it becomes impossible to have meaningful conversations or make progress.
3. Threats to Democracy:
A divided society is a vulnerable one. Any democracy’s most basic foundations would be undermined once people start believing that those across the political divides are enemies.
This can in extreme cases get violent and unsustainable.
What Is to Be Done?
1. Rethinking Social Media Infrastructure:
Social media companies must wake up to being responsible for contributing to polarization in the first place. This might include:
Slowing Viral Content:
- Authenticate user identities, and reduce fake accounts.
- More balanced perspectives are presented in a meaningful way.
2. Promote Critical Thinking:
A person can counter polarization by being critical of the information they view online. Before posting, ask: Is it true? Is it helpful? Am I reacting emotionally?
3. Providing Better Research:
Both policymakers and designers must have better research for informed decision-making, which also encompasses understanding how algorithms affect behavior and what changes will bring about a reduction in harm.
4. Civil Discourse:
We have to build spaces for respectful conversation, even in disagreement. This requires a great deal of patience, empathy, and listening.
Conclusion:
Social media connects us, but at the same time, it makes us divide. Once we understand how social media works and take the next steps to address its flaws, we can create a healthier online environment. Social media companies, policymakers, and people together are responsible for building a world that brings people closer through technology rather than pushing them apart.
FAQs:
1. What is polarization?
Polarization is when people become divided into opposing groups with extreme views.
2. How does social media cause polarization?
Social media algorithms show content that triggers emotions like outrage, creating echo chambers and reinforcing divisions.
3. What are supernormal stimuli?
Supernormal stimuli are exaggerated triggers, like fake news, that provoke strong emotional reactions.
4. Can exposing people to opposing views reduce polarization?
Not always. Studies show it can make polarization worse by reinforcing existing beliefs.
5. How can we fix social media?
By redesigning algorithms, authenticating users, and promoting balanced content.
6. What can individuals do to reduce polarization?
Practice critical thinking, avoid sharing inflammatory content, and engage in respectful conversations.