Twitter's Algorithm Needs an Overhaul

Twitter has long been a platform for users to share their thoughts and opinions, but the algorithm that governs what content is seen by users has been called into question. Recently, Twitter announced plans to expand its engineering team from 600 to 1,000 people in order to improve the user experience. However, some critics are arguing that more engineers won't solve the underlying problem with the algorithm—namely, that it rewards outlandishly hyperbolic content over more nuanced posts. The algorithm was designed with the intention of showing users content they would be interested in based on their past activity and interactions. Unfortunately, this has led to a situation where controversial topics or those with extreme views are often rewarded while more moderate voices are drowned out. This can lead to an echo chamber effect where users only see one side of an issue instead of hearing multiple perspectives. In addition, the algorithm tends to reward posts that contain sensationalized language or hyperbole over those which contain facts or reasoned arguments. This encourages people to post exaggerated claims in order to get attention and engagement from other users—which can lead to misinformation being spread across the platform unchecked. Critics have argued that simply adding more engineers isn't enough—the underlying issues with the algorithm need to be addressed first before any real progress can be made in improving user experience on Twitter. Some suggest changing how posts are ranked so that facts and reasoned arguments are given priority over sensationalized language or hyperbole; others argue for introducing new metrics such as accuracy or credibility when determining what content should be shown first; still others suggest allowing users more control over what type of content they see in their feeds. Ultimately, it remains unclear how exactly Twitter will address these issues going forward—but it is clear that changes need to be made if they want their platform to remain relevant and useful for its millions of daily active users around the world.