Google's Election Influence Debated: Epstein Warns of 'Search Engine Manipulation Effect'
A new debate has emerged regarding the influence of search engines on election polls. Robert Epstein, a researcher at the American Institute for Behavioral Research and Technology, argues that Google could manipulate election results through the 'search engine manipulation effect'. However, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has yet to implement specific regulations governing search algorithms.
Epstein's study found that altering the order of webpages in search results could sway participants' preferences by at least 20% without them realising. He suggests that Google could exploit this effect to influence undecided voters and swing elections. However, Epstein acknowledges that voters are exposed to political information from various sources, making it unlikely that search results alone would decide their vote.
Regulating search engines could have implications. Epstein calls for government oversight to preserve election integrity, but warns that it could also slow algorithm improvements and limit voters' access to information. Currently, no specific regulations govern search algorithms, and Google denies manipulating results for political gain.
While Epstein's research raises concerns about the potential influence of search engines on election polls, it is important to note that Google denies any wrongdoing. The FTC, responsible for overseeing Google's search algorithms, has not yet implemented specific regulations. The debate highlights the delicate balance between preserving election integrity and ensuring voters' access to information.
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