Abdülhamit Bilici*
Most of us are unaware of how social media — now a central part of our lives — quietly and subtly distorts our relationships through algorithms, because this process is silent, surreptitious and usually feels “enjoyable.”
While social media is popular for how quickly and easily it gives us access to news and information, it also carries the hidden risk of trapping users in echo chambers of like-minded people. This leads to increased polarization and division. But just as your views can’t be entirely right, the opposing side may also have valid points.
The algorithm’s job is to show you the most engaging content in the shortest time possible. Platforms use this to keep you online longer and show you more ads. For instance, a post you see on X (formerly Twitter) is selected by software from among 6,000 tweets per second; on Facebook, it’s picked from around 92,000 messages per second.
To do this quickly, the algorithm analyzes what posts or content you view the longest, what you like, who you follow and what types of content you respond to.
Using this data, it builds a profile of you and starts feeding similar content. If you enjoy cooking videos, you’ll mostly see cooking videos. If you support a certain sports club, you’ll see related news. If you’re pro-Trump, you’ll see news aligned with that stance. If you’re in opposition, you’ll get anti-government content. Repetition of this over days and months surrounds you with content that only reflects your interests and mindset.
Platforms like YouTube, X, Facebook and Instagram lock us into echo chambers by constantly feeding us what we already agree with. We gradually stop seeing, hearing or following people who think differently. We close our minds to opposing views and may even start seeing them as threats. Eventually, we believe our view is the only truth and demonize the “other side.” This is a global issue.
Yet confronting different ideas — even if uncomfortable — makes us think, question and grow.
To avoid falling into this polarizing trap, we must first recognize it and make conscious choices. Intentionally follow people with different views. Don’t just consume content you enjoy — engage with ideas that challenge you. Remind yourself that every issue has many perspectives. Limit your time on social media. Spend more time in real life with real people.
Be skeptical of what you read online. Unlike traditional media, social media lacks editors and fact-checkers. Remember: Accounts strongly supporting or opposing a view may be fake, paid trolls or bots.
Get your news from a variety of sources, not just social media. Prioritize understanding over arguing.
Don’t follow accounts that spread lies, provoke or engage in character assassination.
Even if you disagree with someone’s views, respect their humanity. Always remember that someone with a different opinion may still be a good person. Go beyond likes and comments. Try calling or meeting up in person with someone who thinks differently.
Remember: Hearing the same ideas may feel comfortable, but it’s different ideas that make us grow and become wiser.
*Abdülhamit Bilici is the former editor-in-chief of the now-defunct Zaman daily who currently lives in exile in Washington, D.C.