There is a term being tossed around a bit and it is called echo chamber. In a healthy debate or discussion about a contentious topic, people will offer evidence or points of view explaining or reinforcing their position. There may be passion on both sides but usually they will give each other a chance to score points and hopefully the two people learn from each other or agree to disagree.

Here is where echo chambers come into play. As the words imply, a chamber is sealed space where sounds can echo. When this is applied to forums, commentators or contributors can post content they choose to promote and then curate or censor as they see fit. Depending on the motivation or determination of the forum controller, they can even cherry pick data and only use the tidbit pieces of information that further the cause. Participants, possibly unaware or unconcerned, consume the content and leave either satisfied with what they have digested and processed and/or more solidly within the confines of their point of view (right or wrong).

This strategy may be used to further an agenda or to simply capitalize on angst, anxiety, or fears about change or some other trending event in society. The capitalization can take the form of user engagement so that the user stays on the page and views more ads, buys subscriptions, signs up for newsletters (with ads), or even purchase affiliated merchandise.

Echo chamber strategies may make the practitioner more money but the end result is a more polarized, tribal group of followers less likely to listen to facts that do not fit their viewpoint and perception of reality. This can involve political views, culture, or society at large and may to less cooperation or compromise with others who do not share the same enthusiasm for a position.

This is the end of the article (I can’t hear you. La la)