Work

The algorithmic knowledge gap within and between countries: Implications for combatting misinformation

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: While understanding how social media algorithms operate is essential to protect oneself from misinformation, such understanding is often unevenly distributed. This study explores the algorithmic knowledge gap both within and between countries, using national surveys in the United States (N = 1,415), the United Kingdom (N = 1,435), South Korea (N = 1,798), and Mexico (N = 784). In all countries, algorithmic knowledge varied across different sociodemographic factors, even though in different ways. Also, different countries had different levels of algorithmic knowledge: The respondents in the United States reported the greatest algorithmic knowledge, followed by respondents in the United Kingdom, Mexico, and South Korea. Additionally, individuals with greater algorithmic knowledge were more inclined to take actions against misinformation.

Source: Harvard Kennedy School Misinformation Review

DOI: 10.37016/mr-2020-155

Authors: Myojung Chung, John Wihbey

Institution: Northeastern University

Language: English

Topic: Misinformation and Its Impacts

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Northeastern University