
Do social media algorithms change your mind? - Unspun Journal Club
From Unspun by Amanda Sturgill
April 21, 2026 · 20 min
About this episode
This episode explores the impact of social media algorithms on beliefs and perceptions, analyzing new research on X's feed algorithm.
Do social media algorithms actually change what you believe? In this episode of UnSpun , we break down new research from on the political effects of X’s feed algorithm. Using a real-world experiment with X users, the study tests what happens when people switch between chronological and algorithmic feeds. We also examine the legacy of Cambridge Analytica and the broader concerns about filter bubbles, misinformation,and algorithmic influence. It's more complicated than the headlines suggest. Algorithms may not change your identity—but they can shape what you see, who you follow, and how you interpret the world. More about the paper here . Check out Dr. Sturg's book that teaches you how to identify double-talking politicians. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
People in this episode
Host: Amanda Sturgill
Topics covered
- social media algorithms
- political effects
- filter bubbles
- misinformation
- algorithmic influence
Keywords
- social media
- algorithms
- politics
- filter bubbles
- misinformation
- Cambridge Analytica
- X
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Cambridge Analytica
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