"We're at the mercy of Google." Undecided voters in the US who turn to Google may see dramatically different views of the world – even when they're asking the exact same question.

Summary

“We’re at the mercy of Google.” Undecided voters in the US who turn to Google may see dramatically different views of the world – even when they’re asking the exact same question.

Google’s influence on information access is under scrutiny for reinforcing users’ biases through its algorithms. Searches for “good” or “bad” perspectives on topics like Kamala Harris’s candidacy or health questions produce results that confirm existing beliefs, explains Sarah Presch of Dragon Metrics.

Experts such as Varol Kayhan and Mark Williams-Cook argue that this approach amplifies confirmation bias, shaping perceptions and deepening societal divides. While Google claims to reflect user preferences, critics warn of risks in its evolving “answer engine” model and its growing impact on public opinion.

  • tal@lemmy.todayEnglish
    32·
    2 months ago

    I don’t have a Google account precisely because I want to make it harder for Google to build a profile on me, so I probably don’t see profile-based data other than the limited extent to which Google uses IP geolocation as an input to results.

    • Joeffect@lemmy.world
      74·
      2 months ago

      That’s cute, it’s not harder by any means. They track through cookies, your browser fingerprint, your IP, your location, they use everything they possibly can to identify you. Not having an account doesn’t mean anything to the ability to track and identify you

      • MediumGray
        7·
        2 months ago

        Ok, so I don’t disagree with anything you’re saying, and I think your point is very valid and worth saying, but why do you feel the need to start it by being condescending? I’m honestly curious because I feel like I’ve been seeing this a lot on Lemmy.

        • Joeffect@lemmy.world
          2·
          2 months ago

          I mean that’s fair… It was so naive to think you can’t be tracked just because you don’t have an account…

          • MediumGray
            4·
            2 months ago

            Ya, a bit, I guess. I just don’t think talking down to someone is ever really a good way to communicate (unless the interaction is in fact adversarial and that’s the whole point). That being said I suppose I also get that sometimes it’s desirable to express exasperation, even if it’s not constructive or polite.