Algorithms and Digital Activism: The Impact of Algorithms on Social Movements and Activism on Digital Platforms

Abstract

This study examines the interplay between algorithmic infrastructures and digital activism, focusing on how visibility, engagement, and algorithmic governance shape contemporary social movements. Grounded in the theoretical frameworks of algorithmic culture and the visibility economy, the research explores the dual role of algorithms: enabling viral dissemination of activist content while simultaneously imposing structural limitations through filtering, moderation, and personalized recommendation systems. The methodology adopts a qualitative approach, combining literature review with case analyses of three prominent movements: #MahsaAmini, #NoKings, and #StopAsianHate. Findings reveal that activists strategically employ algorithmic affordances—such as optimized hashtag usage, multimedia content, and cross-platform coordination—to enhance reach and engagement. However, these strategies operate within opaque algorithmic systems that perpetuate visibility asymmetries and filter bubbles, raising critical concerns for democratic participation and media literacy. The study concludes that algorithmic literacy is essential for effective activism and advocates for the development of critical media education to mitigate algorithmic inequalities, particularly in movements addressing gender and minority rights.