INFO’s Jen Golbeck sheds light on how algorithms and bot networks fuel online radicalization and deepen social divisions
Photo credit: Full Measure News (or Full Measure with Sharyl Attkisson)
In Full Measure’s segment “Psyops,” experts and lawmakers examine the role of social media in fueling online radicalization following the assassination of free speech activist Charlie Kirk. The discussion centers on how extremist communities and foreign bot networks exploit online platforms to spread division and misinformation.
University of Maryland College of Information Professor Jen Golbeck, an expert on AI, radicalization, and extremism, offers insight into how algorithms and bot activity amplify polarized narratives. Golbeck explains that many inflammatory social media responses, which are often linked to foreign actors, are generated by automated accounts designed to stoke outrage and deepen divides.
For more on how misinformation, social media algorithms, and online influence intersect with real-world violence, read or watch the full report on Full Measure.
The original story was written and produced by the Full Measure staff and aired on September 21, 2025.