Public Opinion Formation in the Age of Social Media Algorithms

Social media platforms were initially created to facilitate genuine user interaction. But now they are increasingly becoming tools for algorithmic control. These platforms now shape public discourse through strategically planned content. This research explores how algorithmic governance on platforms such as Weibo and TikTok affects information visibility, user behavior, and social narratives. It compares their roles in authoritarian and democratic contexts, focusing on two key cases: the censorship of microblogs during the Li Wenliang incident and content control on TikTok before and after the U.S. Capitol riots. Through comparative case studies and qualitative analysis of academic literature and platform practices, the study uncovers mechanisms behind algorithmic manipulation. Findings indicate that these platforms significantly shape public perceptionwhether aligning with national interests (Weibo) or prioritizing commercial neutrality (TikTok). Both approaches reinforce filter bubbles, amplify emotional contagion, and increase user susceptibility to influence. The opacity of algorithmic systems is found to undermine democratic deliberation and individual autonomy. In response to these hidden dynamics, the study emphasizes the need for stronger regulatory and educational measures to mitigate algorithmic distortions in public communication.