this post was submitted on 27 Jul 2026
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Explain Like I'm Five

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[ELI5] Social media algorithms. Like what is the science and/or engineering behind it. (lemmy.world)
submitted 1 month ago by HoneyMustardGas@lemmy.world to c/explainlikeimfive@lemmy.world
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In layman's terms because I am technologically and academically illiterate.

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[–] blarghly@lemmy.world 4 points 1 month ago

I will point out in addition to the other comments here that a lot of algorithms for content are actually based in the science that comes directly from casinos. Casinos found that people didnt stick around as long if they never won, or even if they won a little consistently. The trick is to give them a long string of small losses, until they are just about ready to give up - then to give them a win to keep hope alive. This actually makes the habit form stronger and better than constant positive reinforcement.

So you know how you have to wade through the bullshit to get to the good stuff online....?