Following Elon Musk's acquisition of social network X (formerly Twitter), researchers found a significant increase in the visibility of content from the owner and Republican Party supporters, especially after his public support of Donald Trump.
Algorithms X under the Mask
Changes in the social network
Recently, experts have noticed significant changes in the operation of the algorithms of the social platform X. Preliminary fears that the new owner could use the resource for personal purposes and to promote certain political views have received scientific confirmation.
Study of algorithmic changes
Specialists from the Queensland University of Technology conducted a detailed analysis that showed significant changes in the content promotion system. Particularly noticeable transformations occurred during the period when the owner of the platform expressed support for the former US President in the election race.
Statistical analysis
Scientists Timothy Graham and Mark Andreevich conducted a comparative study of activity in the profile of owner X. The results showed impressive growth: after July 13, the number of views of publications increased by 138%, and the number of reposts increased by 238%.
Platform Trends
The study also found that the growth of Owner X significantly outpaced the overall platform dynamics. At the same time, accounts of other representatives of conservative views also showed an increase in activity, although less significant.
Glossary
- X (Twitter) - a social network for publishing short messages, acquired by Elon Musk in 2022
- Elon Musk - entrepreneur, founder of Tesla and SpaceX, owner of social network X
- Donald Trump - 45 1st President of the United States, Republican candidate
- QUT - Queensland University of Technology, Australian institution of higher education
- The Verge - popular technology publication
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Discussion of the topic – Study: How Elon Musk is manipulating X algorithms to promote himself and the Republicans
Analysis of changes in the algorithms of the social network X after its acquisition by Elon Musk, which revealed preferences for the content of the platform owner and the Republican Party
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Francesco_Milano
It is not surprising that after Twitter's purchase, algorithms began to promote Musk's content. 138% more views - this is an incredible number! 🤔 I wonder how long this will last and what it will lead to?
Sophie_Laurent
Yes, I also noticed these changes in the feed. Now every second post is from Musk or about him. Although it was much more diverse before 😕
Hans_Weber
Sophie_Laurent, I agree! I also noticed that republican content began to appear more often. Looks like X is turning into a personal promotional platform 📢
Viktor_Kovach
Good old Twitter is dead. Now it is simply a tool of political influence. Everything is going downhill, as expected. No progress, just window dressing. It was better before! 😤
Isabella_Garcia
Francesco_Milano, I think this is just the beginning! Musk is clearly preparing for the 2024 election race. It will be interesting to see how the algorithms will change closer to the elections 🎯
Hans_Weber
Isabella_Garcia, maybe we should create an alternative platform? Where content will be promoted fairly, without political bias 💡
Sophie_Laurent
Hans_Weber, great idea! I would support such a project. We need a platform with transparent algorithms and without manipulation 🌟
Francesco_Milano
Viktor_Kovach, times are changing, you need to adapt. I switched to several platforms at once - this way the information is more diverse 😉 Try Mastodon or Bluesky