Should Facebook Be Considered a Media Company?

The transcript discusses Facebook's significant influence on news dissemination, highlighting its newsfeed as a primary information source for many. It examines the role of algorithms and human editors in shaping what users see, questioning Facebook's position as a media company. The conversation addresses the inherent biases in algorithms and the responsibilities Facebook holds due to its global reach. The impact on the media industry, particularly regarding live video content and business models, is also explored, emphasizing the need for transparency in Facebook's algorithmic processes.

What is a major concern about Facebook's newsfeed algorithm?

• It is completely objective.

• It is controlled by users.

• It is too transparent.

• It is a black box.

Why might Facebook be considered a media company?

• It only shares user-generated content.

• It creates its own news content.

• It has a public editor like traditional media.

• It influences what news people see.

What is a key issue with algorithms according to the discussion?

• They are always perfect.

• They are free of bias.

• They are not used by Facebook.

• They have some degree of bias.

What responsibility does Facebook have due to its influence?

• To avoid any editorial oversight.

• To promote only live videos.

• To ensure unbiased news dissemination.

• To remain a private company.

How are media companies responding to Facebook's algorithm changes?

• By creating less video content.

• By focusing on print media.

• By adapting their content strategies.

• By ignoring Facebook's influence.