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Datafication Markers: Curation and User Network Effects on Mobilization and Polarization During Elections
[journal article]
Abstract Social media platforms are crucial sources of political information during election campaigns, with datafication processes underlying the algorithmic curation of newsfeeds. Recognizing the role of individuals in shaping datafication processes and leveraging the metaphor of news attraction, we study ... view more
Social media platforms are crucial sources of political information during election campaigns, with datafication processes underlying the algorithmic curation of newsfeeds. Recognizing the role of individuals in shaping datafication processes and leveraging the metaphor of news attraction, we study the impact of user curation and networks on mobilization and polarization. In a two-wave online panel survey (n = 943) conducted during the 2021 German federal elections, we investigate the influence of self-reported user decisions, such as following politicians, curating their newsfeed, and being part of politically interested networks, on changes in five democratic key variables: vote choice certainty, campaign participation, turnout, issue reinforcement, and affective polarization. Our findings indicate a mobilizing rather than polarizing effect of algorithmic election news exposure and highlight the relevance of users’ political networks on algorithmic platforms.... view less
Keywords
mobilization; polarization; election campaign; algorithm; social media; election to the Bundestag; digitalization
Classification
Interactive, electronic Media
Political Process, Elections, Political Sociology, Political Culture
Impact Research, Recipient Research
Free Keywords
algorithmic platforms; datafication
Document language
English
Publication Year
2023
Page/Pages
p. 262-273
Journal
Media and Communication, 11 (2023) 3
Issue topic
Social Media's Role in Political and Societal Mobilization
ISSN
2183-2439
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed