What role does technology play in the influence of social media platforms like TikTok?

Social media platforms, especially TikTok, have dramatically changed the landscape of information dissemination, largely due to their powerful algorithms and extensive reach.

The algorithm on TikTok operates in a way that allows content to go viral or remain unnoticed, leading to a higher variance in viewership compared to other platforms like Instagram. This variance plays a crucial role in user engagement and addiction, especially among younger audiences.

• The factors contributing to this addictive nature are the algorithms, which prioritize engaging and emotional content over follower counts, creating an echo chamber effect.
• Concerns arise regarding national security, as platforms like TikTok potentially allow foreign adversaries to influence public opinion and spread disinformation among users.
• The selective nature of content visible to users means that the platform may be utilized for manipulation by state actors, especially if they aim to sow division within a society.

This powerful capacity of algorithms to manipulate views raises pressing questions about the control and responsibility of social media companies in safeguarding democratic values.