Just like TV was different from Radio, the Internet is different than TV. Traditional TV had/has "gate keepers" to filter the raw information and present it with a certain level of professionalism. With the Internet, these gate keepers are less important/powerful/needed. Individuals can "create" their own information feed based on their own pre-chosen resources (legitimate or not).
Yes, cable TV expanded TV beyond the "big networks" (CBS/NBC/ABC etc.) but the democratization of news, reporting and information spreading is entirely new.
Isn’t Facebook and it’s algorithms that sell you a pretty hefty gatekeeper in deciding what you see?
I mean, HN, Reddit and what other social sites do the same thing, and you could still go where you want without relying on internet“channels” or google searches, but most people don’t.
>Isn’t Facebook and it’s algorithms that sell you a pretty hefty gatekeeper in deciding what you see?
Good point, I would say however that you create/add the sources first (by following), Facebook then guides what you see, based on your behavior.
Facebook doesn't decide upon, and broadcast a pre-determined message - they simply work off of your preferences, and try to give you more of what you want (not need) with a healthy side of advertising.
Very true about Facebook especially and you only have to look at the last U.S. presidential election to see how it can have dramatic effects on people's perspectives and expectations.
Echo chambers are a dangerous thing that people should be educated about early and often.
Yes, cable TV expanded TV beyond the "big networks" (CBS/NBC/ABC etc.) but the democratization of news, reporting and information spreading is entirely new.