Social media has become an integral part of modern life, connecting people from all walks of life through various platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and others.
These platforms have also raised concerns about their impact on society's wellbeing. One area where social media has particularly affected is the LGBTQ+ community, both positively and negatively. While social media can foster queer solidarity, it also presents several challenges to its capacity for surveillance, data extraction, and algorithmic erasure of marginalized identities. This article will explore how future social media platforms might handle this issue differently.
Surveillance and Data Extraction
One significant concern with social media is that it allows companies to collect massive amounts of user data. These data include personal information like name, age, location, interests, browsing history, communication patterns, and more. Companies use this data to analyze user behavior and target ads based on their preferences. While this may seem harmless, it poses risks to the privacy of queer individuals who may face discrimination or violence due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
A trans person using a dating app could be outed if their profile photo is misgendered by an algorithm. Similarly, a gay man in a conservative country could be arrested for his sexual preferences if authorities discover his online activity. In addition, companies can sell user data to third parties, exposing private information to potential hackers or malicious actors.
Algorithmic Erasure of Marginalized Identities
Social media algorithms are designed to recommend content that users are likely to engage with.
These algorithms often reinforce stereotypes and exclude marginalized voices from the conversation.
An algorithm designed to show heteronormative content might not display posts about polyamory or non-binary experiences. As a result, queer people may feel isolated and unseen, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Moreover, algorithms can promote harmful ideologies such as slut-shaming or transphobia, perpetuating negative stereotypes. This erasure of marginalized identities can lead to increased discrimination and violence against queer individuals.
Future Platforms
To address these challenges, future social media platforms must prioritize user safety and privacy. Companies should implement stronger security measures to protect user data, including encryption and two-factor authentication. They should also create policies to prevent discriminatory behavior on their platforms and penalize those who violate them.
Social media algorithms should be transparent and accountable, allowing users to understand how they work and challenge biases.
Platforms should actively seek out diverse perspectives and promote inclusivity through programming and moderation practices.
Social media has had both positive and negative impacts on the LGBTQ+ community. While it can foster solidarity by connecting like-minded individuals, it also presents risks due to surveillance, data extraction, and algorithmic erasure of marginalized identities. To mitigate these challenges, future social media platforms must prioritize user safety, promote inclusivity, and hold themselves accountable for their actions. By doing so, they can create a more equitable and safe space for all users, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.