Why Social Media Keeps Making Us Angry — and Why the Next Generation of Platforms Needs New Incentives
Key Highlights Social media platforms initially marketed on the promise of human connection have systematically prioritized algorithmic engagement over user well-being. Research and platform disclosures indicate that high-arousal negative emotions—particularly anger and outrage—generate significantly higher retention and interaction rates than positive content. The resulting business model creates a structural incentive to amplify divisive discourse, reshaping ...