Filter bubble is a term coined by internet activist Eli Pariser and it refers to what he calls a state of intellectual isolation that’s caused by only engaging in online behavior that aligns with our views, our beliefs, and our preferences.
Filter bubbles are created through a combination of choices that we make, which are strengthened by internet algorithms that are designed to personalize our newsfeed and amplify information that’s extreme, exciting, or polarizing.
The more we engage with those headlines, the more likely we are to be shown more like them.
When we use Google to do a simple internet search, we get results based on:
Similarly, when we browse social media, we are shown suggested accounts or people to follow because of the content or accounts we currently engage with.
Pretty soon, you’re only seeing search results and social media accounts or posts that exactly match your opinions, your likes, your beliefs, your preferences.
Instead of you seeking specific information, you’re in a filter bubble and the information is finding you. We’re missing out on information and other perspectives, which means we're only seeing part of the story.
One way is to intentionally change your information seeking behavior. If you consistently get your news from the same news source, you may only be getting part of the story. You don’t realize what you’re not seeing.
What do you know about your preferred news source? Consult at a media bias chart to help you determine partisan bias.
Source: https://www.allsides.com/media-bias/media-bias-chart