Can we train social media? Róbert Móro explains on Slovak Radio

In a recent interview for Slovak Radio, Róbert Móro, a researcher from our institute, addressed a very current topic: How to ‘train’ social media. At a time when digital platforms dominate our lives, it is important to understand how they work and how we can optimize their use to show more valuable content.

Róbert Móro explained that social networks use sophisticated algorithms and models that analyze our behavior on the internet. These models are designed to maximize our attention and time spent on the platform by showing us posts that are most likely to interest us. Based on our interactions, such as likes, comments, and shares, the algorithms predict what content is likely to keep us on the platform the longest.

But the debate has also highlighted the darker side of these systems. Social networks can often provide us with harmful content, such as medical misinformation, hate speech or even life-threatening challenges, which are particularly dangerous for children. These risks raise questions: How can we ensure that algorithms work for us and not against us? 

According to Róbert, there is a way to train the algorithms. The key is to actively interact with the content we find valuable and ignore or block content that is inappropriate or harmful. The more signals we give the platform about our preferences, the better it can adjust the content we see.

Róbert also emphasized the importance of tailoring platform content for children. He sees stricter regulation of platforms as one way to ensure that children are exposed to safe content. Some social networks have already created child-friendly versions of their services. Guests on the radio show also suggested limiting time spent on social media and making sure children only have access to safe content. Parents should also have regular discussions with their children about what they see online and help them to distinguish between reliable and questionable content. 

In the age of digital dominance, it is extremely important that we learn to effectively manage our interactions with social media. The interview provided valuable information and advice on how to navigate this complex world and protect ourselves as well as our youngest.

You can listen to the full programme in the radio archive here.