Decomed countries in perilous state
In a recent discussion, experts explored possibilities for new forms of democratic deliberation in the digital age, focusing on Chile as a case study for political and cultural transformations in digitally mediated societies. Giorgio Jackson, the former Minister of Social Development of Chile, and Sylvain Parasie, the Scientific Director of Médialab Sciences Po, participated in the conversation.
The roles of social media and algorithms in shaping political legitimacy and fueling polarization during Chile's 2019 social uprising and recent constitutional processes were multifaceted.
Social media platforms have been instrumental in disseminating information rapidly and mobilizing public support for protests. During the 2019 uprising, social media was used effectively to organize and amplify protests, contributing to widespread participation and visibility of the movement. It also provided a space for citizens to express their opinions and engage in discussions about political legitimacy, potentially influencing public perception of the government and political institutions.
However, social media can also facilitate the spread of misinformation, which can contribute to escalating tensions. In the case of Chile, this was evident during the 2019 uprising, where misinformation circulated online exacerbated the situation.
In addition to social media, algorithms on these platforms also play a significant role. They can filter content in ways that reinforce existing biases, creating echo chambers where users are exposed primarily to information that aligns with their pre-existing views. This can further polarize public opinion. Algorithms can also inadvertently spread disinformation or misinformation, eroding trust in institutions and fueling political polarization.
During Chile's recent constitutional processes, social media played a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing the political narrative. Algorithms likely influenced how information about these processes was consumed and interpreted by the public, potentially exacerbating political divisions.
The digital landscape in Chile has contributed to increased polarization by creating and reinforcing ideological divides. This polarization can impact perceptions of political legitimacy, as different groups may have differing views on the legitimacy of the government and its processes based on the information they consume online.
The discussion concluded by inviting the audience to consider strategies for strengthening democracy in an interconnected world. The importance of promoting media literacy, regulating algorithms, and fostering open and inclusive digital spaces was emphasized.
A replay of the discussion involving Jackson and Parasie is available for those who missed it. The conversation serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complex interplay between social media, algorithms, and political legitimacy in the digital age.
- Artificial Intelligence, technology, and social media have become crucial factors in shaping political legitimacy, as seen during Chile's 2019 social uprising and recent constitutional processes, where algorithms on social media platforms played a significant role in filtering content and reinforcing existing biases.
- In addition to social media, policy-and-legislation surrounding algorithms has become increasingly important, as misinformation spread through digital platforms can contribute to political polarization and undermine trust in government and institutions.
- As Democratic deliberation evolves in the digital age, discussions around entertainment, politics, and general news must consider the role of social media and algorithms in shaping public opinion and creating ideological divides, with an emphasis on promoting media literacy and fostering open, inclusive digital spaces for societal growth and improved political legitimacy.
