Frontline Season 37 Episode 9 The Facebook Dilemma (Part 1)
- October 29, 2018
The Facebook Dilemma is a two-part Frontline documentary that investigates the major global impact of the social media giant, Facebook. The first part of the series delves deeper into the company's history and its rapid growth trajectory. The show explores the ways in which Facebook has transformed social interaction, business, and politics since its inception.
The episode begins by introducing the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which rocked Facebook in 2018. The data firm had collected and used personal information from millions of Facebook users in an attempt to influence the 2016 presidential election. This event led to increased scrutiny of the company, and the episode aims to explore Facebook's practices in-depth.
Throughout the episode, viewers gain insight into Mark Zuckerberg's early ideas for Facebook. The show explains how the platform began as a way for students to connect online and evolved into a social media giant. The episode also touches on the consequences of Facebook's focus on growth without considering the potential risks and dangers associated with collecting and sharing user data.
The episode includes interviews with many notable individuals, including former employees, tech experts, and journalists. These people share their insights into the company's flaws and the risks it poses to society.
The episode also highlights Facebook's role in inciting riots and violence in developing countries, including Myanmar and Sri Lanka. The platform's algorithms, designed to promote engaging content, have been found to intensify existing tensions and fuel disinformation campaigns.
The episode also explores Facebook's impact on political campaigns, particularly during the 2016 presidential election. Advertisements on Facebook played a significant role in shaping public opinion and swaying voters. The show examines the ways in which Facebook has been manipulated and used to spread misinformation and propaganda.
The Facebook Dilemma aims to provide viewers with a comprehensive understanding of the company and its effects on society. The episode raises questions about privacy and personal data and highlights the potential dangers of large tech companies with massive amounts of personal data.
Overall, the show provides a thought-provoking examination of one of the most influential companies in modern history. The Facebook Dilemma (Part 1) sets the stage for the next episode, which will explore the aftermath of the Cambridge Analytica scandal and the steps Facebook has taken to address its issues.
