What's Happening?
Linguist Adam Aleksic has released a book titled 'Algo Speak: How Social Media is Transforming the Future of Language,' which examines the influence of social media algorithms on language. Aleksic argues that platforms like TikTok and Instagram are accelerating language change by incentivizing certain types of communication. He highlights how algorithms shape the way people speak, both online and offline, by promoting engagement-driven language trends. Examples include the use of words like 'unalive' instead of 'kill' due to content suppression on TikTok, and the rapid popularization of slang such as 'rizz.' Aleksic discusses how these changes reflect broader cultural shifts and the commodification of attention by social media platforms.
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Why It's Important?
The transformation of language through social media algorithms has significant implications for communication and culture. As platforms prioritize engagement, they influence the way people express themselves, potentially flattening linguistic diversity. This shift affects not only online interactions but also offline communication, as algorithm-driven language trends permeate everyday speech. The rapid spread of new words and phrases can alter cultural norms and societal perceptions, impacting how communities relate to one another. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for educators, linguists, and policymakers as they navigate the evolving landscape of digital communication.
