In a revealing segment on the Joe Rogan Experience, historian Rebecca Lemov discussed Facebook's controversial 2012 experiment where nearly 700,000 users had their news feeds manipulated to be either more positive or negative. The goal was to study emotional responses and behavior changes, but it drew sharp criticism for resembling brainwashing techniques. Facebook did not inform users of their participation, and at least one individual claimed the experiment contributed to suicidal thoughts. Lemov highlighted the ethical considerations surrounding consent and user agreements, which many unknowingly accept.
"It's not that it changed my thoughts, it's that it changed my feelings about my thoughts," Lemov explained.
"Whenever you go on the platform, you agree to be tested or A-B testing," revealed Lemov.
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