Algorithmic distortion of information in digital platforms: ethical aspects

Abstract

Digital technologies are now being actively implemented in various spheres of social life, transforming the fundamental foundations of human existence. At the same time, there is also algorithmic distortion of information on digital platforms, manipulation of users' cognitive vulnerabilities. This requires a socio-philosophical analysis of the existing paradigm of regulating the digital space, studying how platforms affect users, business, and society. The purpose of the article is to study the moral and ethical conflicts and axiological aspects of algorithmic distortion of information in digital platforms, the impact of automated content selection on cognitive freedom, subjective truth, and social justice. The research methodology is based on philosophical, general scientific and specific scientific methods, on synergistic methodology and computer science methods, methods of modeling and forecasting neural networks, adherence to the principles of academic integrity and resolving legal issues related to intellectual property rights for results created by artificial intelligence. Conclusions and prospects for further research.Algorithmic distortion of information on digital platforms is not only a technical error, but also an important ethical issue that transforms the fundamental foundations of human existence.Content filtering and ranking mechanisms, creating “information bubbles” and “echo chambers,” deform an individual’s cognitive activity, limit their intellectual autonomy, and replace objective reality with personalized constructs. This leads to the emergence of "programmed subjectivity", where the user's freedom of choice becomes illusory, and the process of forming one's own opinion finds itself under the implicit control of algorithmic systems. It is stated that the socio-political consequences of algorithmic manipulation require a revision of the existing paradigm of legal regulation of the digital space. It is argued that the conflict between society's right to algorithmic transparency and corporate trade secrets should be resolved in favor of the public interest and the protection of human rights. Implementing ethical standards into digital architecture is a necessary condition for preventing algorithmic bias, which threatens to reproduce and amplify social injustice in an automated environment. It has been proven that overcoming algorithmic distortion is possible only through a complex synergy of three areas: the implementation of the principle of "ethics by design", the development of effective national and international legislation, and the systematic development of algorithmic literacy among the population. It is concluded that only such an integrative approach will allow digital communication to return its humanistic purpose.