Want to combat online misinformation? Regulate the architecture of social media platforms, not their content

Over the past couple of decades, social media platforms have evolved from simple networking sites into powerful forces that shape public opinion, influence elections, impact public health, and affect social cohesion. The growing role of social media platforms in disseminating information and the need to ensure the integrity of this information make discussions about regulation more urgent than ever. Focus on the algorithms themselves Given these challenges, a more nuanced and effective approach to maintaining information integrity on social media should focus on regulating the algorithms that shape online discourse rather than attempting to regulate content directly or allowing unrestrained amplification of misinformation. Platforms should also empower users with meaningful choice over their information environment by offering multiple feed options — from traditional chronological and algorithmic feeds to community-curated collections, “discovery” feeds that surface content outside users’ typical patterns, and “slow” feeds that prioritise sustained discussions over viral spikes. No need to compromise fundamental freedoms Just as we regulate critical infrastructure like power grids through engineering standards rather than controlling how people use electricity, algorithmic design standards offer a way to ensure social media platforms serve their essential democratic function without compromising fundamental freedoms.