Shedding More Light on How Instagram Works: Connecting the Dots between TikTok and Victorian Parlour Games

Shedding More Light on How Instagram Works: Connecting the Dots between TikTok and Victorian Parlour Games

In the age of social media, understanding how platforms like Instagram work can feel like deciphering a complex puzzle. Instagram utilizes a variety of algorithms, classifiers, and processes, each with its own purpose, to determine what content users see on their feeds and explore pages. By unraveling the mechanics behind Instagram's algorithms, we can gain a deeper understanding of how the platform functions and how it shapes our online experiences.

When it comes to the Instagram feed, the platform ranks posts based on what users care about most. The algorithms take into account various signals, including information about the post itself, the person who made the post, and the user's preferences. Engagement plays a crucial role in determining the visibility of a post on the feed. Instagram closely monitors five key interactions: the likelihood of users spending time on a post, commenting on it, liking it, saving it, and tapping on the profile photo. The more likely users are to take these actions and the more weight these actions hold, the higher up the post will appear on the feed.

In contrast, Instagram Stories prioritize users' closest friends. People tend to look for updates from their close connections in Stories, while they seek out new and exciting content in the Explore section. Instagram employs different ranking methods for various parts of the app based on how people use them. Exploring the Explore section, for instance, relies on signals such as likes, saves, and shares, alongside a user's history of interacting with the person who posted the content.

Just as Instagram has its algorithms, TikTok has its own unique dynamics. Interestingly, TikTok videos bear a resemblance to Victorian parlour games. Both forms of entertainment involve play and the transformation of everyday circumstances into fantasies. Play, whether in the form of amateur theatrical performances or TikTok videos, allows individuals to try on new ways of being and being with each other. These platforms provide opportunities for social ties to form and endure beyond the game or video itself.

Amateur theatricals in the 19th century were praised for their ability to teach empathy and an understanding of human emotions. Similarly, TikTok videos offer glimpses into the lives and experiences of others, often showcasing bodily transformations and grotesque elements. In times of social uncertainty, such transformations take on new meaning, resonating with our collective fears and desires. The appeal of watching young TikTokers at play lies in their blissful disregard for consequences, blurring the boundaries between make-believe and reality.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the significance of play in our lives. We have all become amateur players, adapting to new roles and navigating the challenges of a world turned upside down. TikTok has become a platform where individuals can explore their dreams and aspirations, as seen in the trend of people quitting their jobs and sharing their exits under quitmyjob. Through playful choreography and post-production, TikTokers have transformed mundane moments into fantasies, showcasing the liberating power of play.

So, how can we navigate these platforms and make the most of our social media experiences? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Engage authentically: Instead of focusing solely on increasing likes and followers, prioritize meaningful interactions with the content you genuinely enjoy. Comment, save, and share posts that resonate with you. Authentic engagement not only contributes to a more fulfilling online experience but also signals to the algorithms that the content is valuable and relevant.

2. Embrace playfulness: Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things on social media. Just as TikTokers find joy in playfully transforming everyday circumstances, allow yourself to explore creative ways to express yourself and connect with others on platforms like Instagram. Embrace the liberating power of play and have fun with your online presence.

3. Seek diversity: While it's natural to gravitate towards content from familiar faces, make an effort to diversify your feed. Explore new accounts, follow individuals who offer different perspectives and experiences. By broadening your online connections, you open yourself up to a richer and more inclusive social media experience.

In conclusion, understanding how Instagram and platforms like TikTok function can help us navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media. By unraveling the mechanics behind these platforms, we can make intentional choices about our online interactions and create a more authentic and fulfilling digital presence. Embracing playfulness, seeking diversity, and engaging authentically are key to making the most of our social media experiences. So, next time you open Instagram or TikTok, remember to embrace the transformative power of play and explore the endless possibilities that await you.