In an era where social media platforms are saturated with algorithmic curation, the concept of a chronological feed is gaining traction. However, Jonathan Stray, a senior scientist at the UC Berkeley Center for Human-Compatible AI, raises concerns about the efficacy of chronological feeds. He argues that chronological feeds can lead to recency bias and enable spam, suggesting that the solution to the problem of social media algorithms may actually require more algorithms. Stray’s skepticism highlights the complex relationship between algorithmic curation and social harm, underscoring the need for innovative approaches to prioritizing socially desirable outcomes on social media platforms.
Platforms like Spread, which eschew brands, bots, and ads in favor of promoting “meaningful” human engagement, represent a departure from the traditional model of maximizing time-on-site. Spread’s founder, Rogers, emphasizes indicators of meaningful engagement, such as users clicking on recommendations and taking subsequent actions like signing up for newsletters or subscriptions. This shift towards quality over quantity reflects a growing sentiment of nostalgia for the original purpose of social media, which aimed to connect individuals in a meaningful way amidst the deluge of information available online.
While some users seek refuge in algorithm-free platforms like Spread, others are turning to group messaging as a supplementary means of communication. Group chats offer a more intimate and less chaotic space for sharing content and interacting with peers. The appeal of group messaging lies in its chronological structure, which provides a sense of order and control in an otherwise algorithm-driven social media landscape. However, group chats are not without their biases, as they can still create echo chambers and reinforce cognitive biases among users.
As users navigate the complexities of algorithmic curation and seek out alternative platforms and communication channels, the quest for a perfect information feed continues. The growing popularity of messaging apps like WhatsApp in the US indicates a shift towards more private and personalized forms of communication. Additionally, the trend towards direct messaging within dominant social apps suggests a desire for more control over content consumption and engagement. Despite the challenges posed by algorithm-driven feeds, users are actively exploring new ways to curate their social media experiences and connect with others in a meaningful way.