Algorithms on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram determine the content users see, shaping how people learn and consume information [1, 2].
This systemic control of information flow matters because it dictates the digital reality of millions, often prioritizing platform engagement over user intent or educational value [1, 3].
These recommendation systems are designed to maximize the time a user spends on the app. In some cases, users may open TikTok for a quick video only to realize 25 minutes have passed while they continued scrolling [2]. This phenomenon highlights the effectiveness of algorithms in capturing and holding human attention through personalized content loops [1, 2].
While these systems provide convenience, some creators have raised concerns about the "tyranny of the algorithm" [4]. Sergio Oramas, an artist known as Muyaio, said these systems are problematic while analyzing musical catalogs and code [4]. The tension lies in the balance between discovery and curation, where the platform decides what is relevant rather than the user.
Users have expressed discontent as algorithms evolve, particularly regarding suggested Reels on Instagram [5]. This shift has led some to seek ways to regain control over their feeds [2]. While some reports suggest there are clear methods to influence what the algorithm shows, others argue the platforms maintain primary control over the content delivery [3, 5].
Despite the complexity of these systems, some experts suggest that users can still steer their experience. An author for MSN said, "No existen atajos ocultos, pero sí métodos claros para influir en lo que ves" [3]. This suggests that while the algorithm is the primary driver, user interactions, such as likes and skips, serve as the data points that feed the system [1, 3].
“"No existen atajos ocultos, pero sí métodos claros para influir en lo que ves."”
The shift toward algorithmic curation represents a move from a chronological or social-graph-based internet to one driven by predictive behavioral modeling. As these platforms increasingly determine the boundaries of a user's information diet, the risk of echo chambers increases, making intentional user interaction necessary to break automated content loops.
