Democracy Under Algorithmic Influence: The Political Consequences of Social Media Use Among Students in the Philippines

In an age where algorithms quietly shape what we see, think, and believe, "Democracy Under Algorithmic Influence: The Political Consequences of Social Media Use Among Students in the Philippines" offers a timely and critical examination of how digital platforms influence democratic thought among the youth. Authored by Fernand A. Claud, it dives deep into the subtle yet powerful role that social media algorithms play in shaping the political behavior of university students in the Philippines. The study, conducted through a comprehensive survey of students from Western Mindanao State University, demonstrates how content filtering, echo chambers, and algorithmic personalization not only shape public discourse but also contribute to political polarization and ideological entrenchment. Drawing on both local and international literature and supported by grounded data, the book highlights how platforms like Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube do more than just connect people—they curate beliefs. It asks: Are we thinking for ourselves, or are we being conditioned by the platforms we trust? This study is essential reading for scholars of political science, media studies, and sociology, as well as educators, policymakers, and digital citizens who seek to understand the digital forces shaping today’s political landscape. With democratic integrity under increasing pressure, this study serves as both a wake-up call and a roadmap for critical media literacy in the algorithm age.