It’s a scientifically proven[1] negative emotions capture our attention far more than positive ones ever could. Social media algorithms—designed to keep us scrolling—exploit this to the fullest. These algorithms aren’t concerned with your happiness or well-being; they’re laser-focused on one thing: engagement.
Think about it—our emotions are being steered by a machine. You get upset over something you see, you react to it, and suddenly, the algorithm feeds you more of the same. It’s a vicious cycle: the angrier you get, the more you interact, and the better it is… for them. For you? Not so much.
Further information
- Facebook Will Permanently Stop Promoting Political Groups, an article by Rachel Sandler on Forbes, which underscores the point that in the end Facebook suggestions are more harmful than useful to the users
- more