Algorithms

"Algorithms": a funny word--

Unless, of course, you're a mathematician.

(Frankly, I have a hard enough time

With simple subtraction and addition.)

 

But Facebook uses algorithms

To help determine what we'll see

When we click on the app and enter

Our social media reality.

 

The algorithms decide whether,

How often, and when we'll see a post,

Based on our interactions online.

Facebook's quite a controlling host.

How does it know what you prefer?

It doesn't know unless you care

To make a comment or click on a button

Such as "Like" or "Love" or "Share."

 

If you're a silent spectator, you

Will not generate connections.

Who knows what you'll end up seeing.

Do not bother to raise objections.

 

Have you noticed that when you search

For something on the internet,

That all of a sudden that item appears

In a Facebook ad? Intrusive? You bet!

 

It would be nice if Facebook could

Stop the spread of misinformation.

It doesn't want to lose customers,

So that might require legislation.

 

It seems rather offensive to me

That we are being manipulated.

But nobody forced me to get an account;

In no way was I obligated.

 

I ask people who aren't on Facebook

If they feel they're missing out.

I shouldn't be surprised by their answer:

"NO…EFFING…WAY!" they shout.

-by Bob B (9-26-21)