AI Summary

The phenomenon of online negativity is often attributed to algorithms, but a recent study suggests that there may be another factor at play. Researchers have found that users' innate drive to differentiate themselves from others can contribute to the spread of negative content online. This drive, known as differentiation, can lead users to engage with and share content that sets them apart from others, even if it's negative. As a result, online negativity can take on a life of its own, spreading beyond the influence of algorithms. The implications of this study are significant, as they suggest that addressing online negativity may require a more nuanced approach than simply tweaking algorithms.

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