Algorithmic Bias and Political Polarization: Analyzing the Role of News Aggregators and Social Media in Pakistan

Abstract

In the digital age, news aggregators and social media platforms, driven by advanced algorithms, play a central role in shaping information consumption and political opinion formation. This study examines the extent to which algorithmic biases in these platforms contribute to political polarization in Pakistan, with a particular focus on their role in disseminating misinformation and fostering echo chambers. Utilizing content analysis, sentiment analysis, and network analysis, the research assesses the prevalence of misinformation, partisan biases, and the emotional tone of the content. The findings indicate a high prevalence of misinformation, significant partisan bias, and a predominance of negative sentiment, which collectively exacerbate political divides and erode public trust. Addressing these issues necessitates enhancing algorithmic transparency, improving media literacy, and implementing more effective measures to combat misinformation, ultimately promoting a more informed and balanced public discourse.