Minorities and Social Media
https://www.fastcompany.com/90220470/this-basic-fact-about-social-networks-disadvantages-minorities
This article covers a research paper that was recently published. It stated that minority groups on social media are at a disadvantage because they have a harder time accessing novel information and spreading influence on the issue. Information takes a significantly longer time traveling to the minorities from the majority of people. Important news such as job offers and opportunities are often missed by minority groups as a result. As many minorities belong in lower income brackets, social media plays a role in giving them a disadvantage in the workforce, thus making the rich richer and the poor poorer.
The researchers created a network model similar to the one we covered in class in Networks. There were a variety of people with various characteristics such as socioeconomic status, culture, and beliefs. As expected, people with similar characteristics had a positive node edge, forming a tight-knit group. There were few bridges, connections between different groups, of people of different characteristics. Majority nodes formed connections in a much quicker speed than minority nodes. As a result, the majority quickly cements its position in the top rank of status, leaving minorities trapped at the bottom. I found this concept very interesting because it considers the factor of time, and how quick it takes social circles to form, which has not yet been covered in class.
This study and experiment largely reflect the social environment in real life. 75% of CEOs in America are white men. Women form a small minority at the top of corporate ranks. Blacks and Hispanics are rare at even entry-level jobs, and almost nonexistent at managerial roles. The authors suggest several ways to combat this issue to give everyone an equal chance. The authors encourage everyone to make connections with people of differing backgrounds and keep an open mind. So next time you see a post you disagree with, don’t be quick to dismiss it, but try to reach out and hear their perspective.