During a recent hearing of the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, Senator John Curtis (R-Utah) questioned experts about the design and impact of social media algorithms. Curtis expressed concern that these algorithms are intentionally addictive and may harm not only children but also teens and adults.
Curtis asked witnesses whether social media platforms create algorithms to encourage compulsive use, track unhealthy patterns such as repeated refreshing or late-night activity, and prioritize profit over user well-being. The expert panel agreed with each point raised by the senator.
Experts also stated that companies have internal research showing these harms, some of which is being made public through ongoing litigation in California. Curtis compared this situation to historic tobacco hearings, where executives denied evidence of harm despite internal documentation.
Although much attention was given to the effects on children, Curtis expanded the discussion to include adults. He asked if negative mental health outcomes extend beyond youth. Witnesses confirmed that depression rates among young adults have doubled and cited studies indicating that reducing social media use can improve mental health for adults.
Senator Curtis also referenced legislation he introduced last year with Senator Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), called the Algorithm Accountability Act. This bill would allow people harmed by algorithms to seek legal action against technology companies. More information about the legislation is available here.
