Analyzing the Influence of Social Media Algorithms on Public Opinion Formation in Democracies

1. Introduction 1.1 Background and Context 1.2 Research Questions and Objectives 1.3 Structure of the Study 2. Theoretical Framework 2.1 Definition of Social Media Algorithms 2.2 Theories of Public Opinion Formation 2.3 Interaction Between Algorithms and Opinion 3. Literature Review 3.1 Previous Studies on Social Media Impact 3.2 Algorithm Influence on Information Exposure 3.3 Public Perception and Democracy 4. Social Media Algorithms Explained 4.1 Types of Algorithms 4.2 Functioning and Key Components 4.3 Algorithmic Filtering and Personalization 5. Public Opinion in Democracies 5.1 Concept and Definition of Public Opinion 5.2 Mechanisms of Opinion Formation 5.3 Role of Media in Opinion Shaping 6. Research Methodology 6.1 Research Design and Approach 6.2 Data Collection Methods 6.3 Data Analysis Techniques 7. Case Studies and Analysis 7.1 Case Study: Algorithm Impact in the USA 7.2 Case Study: Algorithm Impact in the EU 7.3 Comparative Analysis 8. Conclusions and Recommendations 8.1 Summary of Findings 8.2 Implications for Policy and Practice 8.3 Future Research Directions