Is the U.S. government doing enough to regulate social media algorithms?

What is it?

• Social media algorithms have become increasingly scrutinized for promoting false information, conspiracy theories, and divisive content that manipulates human behavior. 
• Companies are intentionally vague on how their algorithms operate to avoid scrutiny. Platforms like TikTok owe high engagement to massive volumes of data and a format that prioritizes content that the algorithm selects.  
• In the United States, lawmakers have yet to introduce meaningful legislation regulating social media algorithms due partly to political polarization and the First Amendment.
• On the other hand, in Europe, the European Union (EU) has taken steps to hold big tech accountable for enforcing transparency and protecting users’ privacy through the Digital Services Act. 

Why is it important?

• While not the sole reason for the increase in polarization over the last several decades, social media can act as an accelerant that exacerbates institutional shortcomings. 
• Efforts to hold big tech accountable in the EU will have ripple effects felt in the U.S., where the lack of ethically sourced user data is a roadblock to determining what effective regulation looks like.  

What can you do?

• Read more about what is in store for social media regulation in the U.S.
• Read more about the EU’s Digital Service Act. 

Authored by Sarah Nishioka