Drishti Khatri, MSc Behavioural Science
Embarking on my MSc in Behavioural Science for Management at the esteemed Behavioural Science Centre, University of Stirling, has been an enlightening experience. Little did I know that this academic journey would present me with an extraordinary opportunity to delve into the profound impact of social media algorithms on human behaviour and self-identity. Collaborating with my peer and talented co-author, Maanas Singh, we embarked on transformative research unravelling the intricate interplay between algorithms and the formation of self-identity within the global south, with a focus on the Indian audience.
Our research journey commenced with a comprehensive exploration of existing literature, leading us to a captivating convergence of diverse disciplines including economics, psychology, and artificial intelligence. Driven by our curiosity to understand the underlying assumptions of rationality in economic models, we embarked on an exhilarating quest to answer if “Are algorithms designed for homoeconomicus?”
Thoughtful synthesis on this topic culminated in our argumentative research paper titled “Rational by Design: The Effects of Social Media Algorithms on Human Behaviour and Self-Identity in India.” This paper not only exemplified our academic growth but also provided a unique opportunity to contribute to the broader academic discourse surrounding the ethical implications of scaling algorithmic systems.
In our paper, we navigated the intricacies of human decision-making while challenging the limitations of traditional economic assumptions. Our study sheds light on the impact of cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias and the bandwagon effect, on individuals’ engagement with social media content. By highlighting the role of these recommender systems in shaping users’ self-identity and exploring the potential polarizing effects arising from the interplay between different agents, we sought to deepen the understanding of these critical dynamics.
We had the opportunity to present this paper at the Student Session of social media and Society in India (SMSI) at the University of Michigan. This publication marks a significant milestone in our academic journey. It provided us with a platform to share our insights and findings with a diverse audience comprising scholars, policymakers, and industry professionals. Our hope is that our research sparks meaningful discussions and propels the development of responsible algorithmic design and digital policies that prioritize user well-being and long-term benefits.
Moreover, our research experience instilled within us a profound appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration. Recognizing the synergy between our individual specializations in fields such as economics, behavioural science, product design, and policy, allowed us to recognize and question ethical challenges. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our university for fostering an environment that encourages such collaborations and equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to undertake ambitious research endeavours.
Looking forward, we are looking forward to continuing to build upon the foundation laid out by our research and delve further into the evolving landscape of human behaviour, technology, and society. We aspire to contribute to the development of evidence-based policies and practices that promote responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence within both developing and developed countries.