Are We Part Of The Problem?
BLUF: Do not react to them!
(Bottom Line Up Front)
Are you aware that people get paid by Facebook to produce content? It’s true. On the surface, I’ve got no problem with this. Scratch the surface tho and problems quickly arise. Take the image below as an example.
The description of the image says it’s of Kolob Arch in Zion National Park, UT. Let's take a closer look.
Mark here has straightened things out, but do you know what else Mark did, he got “Kyle” paid.
That's right. Mark intended well, and indeed will help some viewers become aware that the initial image is indeed not real. However, the only individuals that Mark will likely help are those that were initially skeptical. Same with Gail below…
Gail has also done her part to warn that the image is fake. She has also worked to encourage “Kyle's” behavior as Facebook rewards activity. It doesn't matter if it is positive or negative activity. When individuals react/comment on posts, this feeds into Facebook's algorithm of what to show to others. The more reactions, the more FB shows the post, which leads to more reactions/comments, which becomes an almost infinite loop. Meanwhile, “Kyle” purposely lied to line his pockets. He knows people respond to controversy. (More on that in my next blog.) But wait, there's more…
As if “Kyle” needed further encouragement, Donya not only fed the algorithm, but also fed “Kyle's” behavior directly. Tho, I’m sure she is/was unaware of the deceit.
In the end, be careful, be aware, be informed.
