Updated: Aug. 8, 2016
Originally Published: Oct. 9, 2014
One of my fondest memories involves my grandfather and his beloved encyclopedia. No dinner went by without him pulling it out to settle a debate or answer a question, or sometimes to identify the bird that landed in our yard. Sadly, those days are gone—both for him and for the printed encyclopedia, as we now turn to Google. It’s astonishing how, within moments, we can access a plethora of information from countless websites around the globe.
While search engines have undeniably revolutionized information sharing, I have concerns about their potential to skew our perspectives in ways that my grandfather’s encyclopedia never could.
Recently, I conducted a small experiment by searching “Does [thing] cause cancer?” and plugged in various seemingly absurd items like fruit, vegetables, exercise, and even happiness. In every instance, the first page of results included at least one article that claimed a connection between the item and cancer. For instance, when I typed “Do vegetables cause cancer?” I was presented with a Daily Mail article boldly stating that “eating vegetables may seriously damage your health,” suggesting they could be responsible for a cancer that claims 3,000 lives annually in the UK. On the flip side, when I searched “Do vegetables cure cancer?” another Daily Mail piece claimed that a vegetable-rich diet might reduce my colon cancer risk by half. The website Kill or Cure? humorously showcases how the Daily Mail categorizes various items as both cancer-causing and cancer-preventing, from aspirin to gardens.
The contradictory information we receive is entirely dependent on our search terms. This presents a significant issue since many of us use Google to answer questions like “Does A cause B?” or “Is there a connection between X and Y?” This can inadvertently strengthen what psychologists refer to as confirmation bias—where individuals seek out information that supports their existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence. Thus, when I pose a question to Google, I’m more likely to receive sources that affirm my inquiry rather than a balanced viewpoint.
Moreover, Google employs a sophisticated algorithm that tailors results based on our previous searches and online behavior. This can lead to what internet activist Eli Pariser calls a “filter bubble,” where we become ensnared in bubbles that shield us from information that might challenge our perspectives. Pariser illustrates this using an example of two people searching for “BP”—one receives investment details about British Petroleum, while the other finds information about the oil spill, showcasing how drastically our results can vary.
Strategies for a Balanced Understanding
So, how can we ensure that we achieve a more balanced understanding of the world through our search engine and escape the confines of the filter bubble? Here are several strategies:
- Expand Your Queries: When searching for information, try querying both your question and its opposite. Instead of just asking, “Is X true?” also consider “Is X false?” This approach can help unveil differing perspectives. For example, if I only searched “Do vegetables cause cancer?” I might be left with an unfounded fear that my healthy diet is detrimental. By also searching “Do vegetables cure cancer?” I discovered evidence on both sides, with many reputable sources supporting the health benefits of vegetables.
- Examine Beyond the First Page: Instead of fixating on the top results, delve deeper into the first twenty results and critically evaluate the credibility of the sources. Does the article reference scientific studies, or is it merely an opinion piece? Who conducted the research, and do the studies substantiate the claims made in the article?
- Consider Privacy-Focused Search Engines: Explore search engines like DuckDuckGo that prioritize user privacy and don’t create personalized search bubbles. Additionally, clearing your cookies regularly, deleting your browser history, or using incognito mode can help mitigate the filter bubble effect.
If you’re interested in uncovering whether Google might be influencing your perspectives, a simple search for “Does Google bias your views?” could provide some clarity.
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In summary, while search engines like Google have made accessing information easier than ever, they also risk reinforcing biases and limiting our exposure to diverse viewpoints. By actively seeking out multiple perspectives and critically evaluating our sources, we can navigate the complexities of information in our digital age.