Wednesday, August 6, 2014

The Filter Bubble Debate

As of late, most social networking sites have been using filter bubbles for their search bars. Filter bubbles alter search results to fit the user searching. They use past searches and page visits to determine what results would be favorable to the user. Many people have been arguing whether these filters are a good thing or a bad thing.
Eli Pariser believes that the filter bubbles are restraining us from our civic responsibilities of acquiring unbiased general knowledge. He thinks that although these filters may suit our preferences better, it is our right to be shown everything, whether we prefer it or not. We should be able to make our own decisions based on all that is shown to us, not just listen to what our computers are telling us we prefer to see. I should be able to see the same results as my friends, family, and even people on the other side of the world.
Clive Thompson disagrees with this notion and suggests that filters are a good thing. He stands that we know what we would like to see, and we shouldn't have to look at results that don't interest us. He believes that the issue isn't about what you see, but rather how much you see. I should see as much of what interests me as I want.

No comments:

Post a Comment