Introduction

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has had a profound impact on our lives. While recent advancements, such as large language models like chatGPT, have garnered significant attention, it is crucial to acknowledge that AI has been shaping the world for over a decade. Industry giants like Amazon, Meta (formerly Facebook), and Google have harnessed the power of AI and ML to revolutionize their platforms and influence society at large. In this article, we will explore two crucial AI use-cases within popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube, and discuss the impact they have had.

Stream Ranking

Imagine social media platforms displaying posts in chronological order. It would be overwhelming and inefficient, flooding users with a constant stream of content without personalization. Thankfully, AI-based machine learning algorithms come to the rescue. Platforms utilize these algorithms to filter and reorder users' streams, presenting the most relevant and interesting posts at the top. By doing so, they maximize user engagement and optimize platform usage time. Similar algorithms are used to optimize ad placements on these platforms.

Recommender Systems

AI-based recommender systems have transformed the way we discover content on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. These systems analyze vast amounts of user data to understand preferences and interests, allowing them to deliver personalized recommendations. By suggesting content that aligns with users' tastes, these systems again maximize platform usage time.

Positive Impact on Society

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have undeniably had a positive impact on society. They have democratized content creation, giving individuals from diverse backgrounds a platform to express themselves and share their stories. Through these platforms, talented creators have gained recognition, opening doors to opportunities that were previously inaccessible. Moreover, social media has become a powerful tool for spreading awareness about social issues, mobilizing communities, and promoting positive change. It has fostered global conversations, connecting people from different corners of the world and facilitating cultural exchange.

Negative Impact on Society

Social media, despite its numerous benefits, also has its fair share of downsides. One of the major drawbacks is the negative impact it can have on mental health. Constant exposure to carefully curated highlight reels of others' lives can lead to feelings of inadequacy, comparison, and low self-esteem. Moreover, the addictive nature of social media platforms can result in excessive screen time, sleep disturbances, and reduced productivity. Another concern is the spread of misinformation and fake news, as social media often lacks effective mechanisms to verify the accuracy of shared content. This can lead to the amplification of false narratives and the erosion of trust in traditional news sources. Additionally, the privacy risks associated with social media platforms cannot be overlooked, as personal data is often collected, analyzed, and exploited for targeted advertising or other purposes without users' full understanding or consent. Finally, cyberbullying and online harassment have become prevalent issues, with individuals facing online abuse, threats, and the invasion of their privacy, which can have severe psychological consequences.

Conclusion

AI has already undoubtedly transformed our world, and platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become integral parts of our daily lives. Some even call this the “1st contact of AI with society”.

We’re about to witness the “2nd contact of AI with society”. This time, however, we should try to mitigate the negative impacts of AI on our society as best as possible.