Experts Urge Social Media Platforms to Rethink Algorithms for User Well-Being
A new report from the Knight-Georgetown Institute (KGI) calls for major changes to the way social media algorithms function, arguing that current engagement-driven models contribute to misinformation, polarization, and negative effects on users’ well-being.
Titled Better Feeds: Algorithms That Put People First, the report highlights how platforms like Meta, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) prioritize content that generates clicks, shares, and reactions – often at the expense of long-term user satisfaction. The authors argue that the short-term focus on maximizing engagement leads to the spread of low-quality or harmful content while reinforcing divisive narratives
The report proposes a three-part framework for reforming recommendation systems. First, it calls for greater transparency, urging platforms to disclose how content is ranked, including data sources and evaluation methods. Second, it suggests that users should have more control over their feed, including the ability to choose from different recommendation models, with minors receiving content designed to support their well-being by default. Lastly, it recommends long-term studies to assess the impact of algorithmic changes, with findings made publicly available.
Beyond engagement-based rankings, the report advocates for alternative models that promote constructive dialogue and diverse perspectives rather than reinforcing echo chambers. It also emphasizes the need for platforms to collect direct feedback from users to improve content recommendations based on credibility and informativeness rather than sheer popularity.
The findings come as governments worldwide examine the influence of algorithms on public discourse – The European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) has introduced transparency requirements, while U.S. states are pushing legislation to regulate social media algorithms affecting minors and countries like Australia may be banning social media entirely for under-16s.
Rather than banning personalization outright, the KGI report suggests a more balanced approach: encouraging platforms to refine their systems to benefit users and society while maintaining a quality user experience.
