Common Ground: has the internet turned a shared reality into an algorithmic battlefield? – Andres Reiljan

The internet promised a place where people from diverse backgrounds could find connection and understanding. But has it instead become a deeply polarised medium where echo chambers and ideological extremism make meaningful connection harder than ever? To help us understand what’s happening, we’re joined by Dr. Andres Reiljan, a political scientist at the European University Institute. https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=uBEitnwAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao https://x.com/AReiljan https://www.facebook.com/andres.reiljan https://bsky.app/profile/areiljan.bsky.social In this episode, Andres joins us to explore the complexities of polarisation in the digital age. We discuss the concept of effective polarisation, the role of algorithms in amplifying divisive sentiments, and the psychological toll of constant exposure to conflict. We also look at the importance of finding common ground and the potential for technology to help bridge divides, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by misinformation and emotional polarisation. 00:00 The Promise and Peril of the Internet 05:04 Understanding Effective Polarisation 09:59 The Role of Algorithms in Polarisation 15:07 Factual Belief Polarisation and Misinformation 19:56 The Impact of Polarisation on Society 25:04 Finding Common Ground in a Polarised World 29:54 The Psychological Toll of Polarisation 35:03 Using Technology to Combat Polarisation If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠