Information bubbles on Instagram

This bachelor thesis deals with the issue of information bubbles on the social network Instagram. The main aim of this bachelor thesis is to find out how Instagram users perceive and reflect on the issue of information bubbles and to provide practical recommendations on how users should proceed to avoid being in a bubble or how they can get out of it. The theoretical part focuses on the evolution of social networks, the functioning of algorithms and the emergence of information bubbles themselves. The practical part is based on a quantitative questionnaire and a qualitative questionnaire, this was aimed at young users (15-30 years old) who go regularly to Instagram. The results showed that most respondents had no idea or no clear idea of what information bubbles are. Although, a large proportion of respondents report that they do verify information, this is often in a superficial or selective manner. Respondents also reported that they do not customize the algorithm and it is often a passive way of spending time, where they are only exposed to what the algorithm itself recommends. Based on these findings, specific recommendations for users have been proposed and also included is a suggestion on how to discuss this issue in a school setting. The work thus provides insight into the behaviour of young Instagram users and practical suggestions for developing critical thinking and improving media literacy.