Conservative MPs Outpace Liberals and NDP in Online Engagement, Study Finds
A new study from McGill University has found that Conservative MPs significantly outperform their Liberal and NDP counterparts in online engagement, particularly on the social media platform X. The report, released by McGill's Media Ecosystem Observatory, analyzed online posts from all members of Parliament on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and TikTok between January 2022 and November 2024.
The study revealed that online posts from Conservative MPs garnered 61% more engagement (likes, shares, and comments) than those from Liberal and NDP MPs combined. This increase in engagement is attributed to several factors, including the amplification of right-wing voices on X following Elon Musk's acquisition of the platform in 2022.
Researchers observed a 52% increase in engagement with Conservative politicians on X since Musk's takeover. This amplification is attributed to the platform's algorithms, which tend to favor content that performs well. As right-wing content gains traction, subsequent right-wing content receives further amplification, creating a self-fulfilling cycle.
Furthermore, Musk's own influence on X plays a significant role. His reach on the platform surpasses that of anyone else, and his promotion of right-wing ideas further amplifies such content. This trend has significant implications for the upcoming federal election, as X remains a crucial platform for political discourse and campaigning.
The study highlights the potential for X to be used to promote messages that may not align with Canada's national interests, particularly given Musk's close ties to the Trump administration. This raises concerns about the platform's potential to be manipulated and used to amplify content that is not in the best interests of Canadians.
5 Comments
Donatello
This study is a valuable contribution to the public discourse. It helps us to understand the challenges that we face in the online world.
Michelangelo
The researchers are unbiased and credible. They have a strong track record of publishing high-quality research.
Raphael
This study is a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting our democracy. We need to be informed, engaged, and critical of the information we consume online.
Leonardo
We need to be concerned about the potential for X to be used to manipulate the election. This study provides evidence that this is a real possibility.
Raphael
The researchers are clearly partisan hacks. They're trying to use this study to attack Elon Musk and the Conservatives.