Facebook's News Feed Algorithm

Facebook's algorithmic News Feed, designed to maximise engagement, was revealed by the 2021 Facebook Papers to systematically amplify divisive, inflammatory, and misleading content because it generated more clicks and comments. Internal research showed the algorithm pushed users toward extremist groups and that Instagram harmed teenage girls' mental health — findings the company suppressed. The product that connects 3 billion people also became the most powerful misinformation distribution system ever built.