Social Media and Public Opinion Formation: Information Dissemination and Polarization

Abstract

Social media plays an important role in shaping public opinion, especially when it comes to the rapid spread of information and algorithms that reinforce polarization. With the proliferation of platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, information can be disseminated in seconds, but often without adequate verification. In addition, algorithms used by social media platforms personalize content based on user behavior, exacerbating the echo chamber effect and increasing polarization. The spread of fake news and unverified information on social media adds to mistrust and social tension in society. The resulting polarization deepens differences in political ideologies, while the intensification of group identities makes open discussion increasingly difficult. Social media also has the potential to facilitate social engagement if used wisely. Efforts are needed to improve media literacy, ensure algorithm transparency, and verify information so that people can access more accurate and healthy information.