How Social Media Monetized Conspiracy, and Why It Must Be Stopped

A 3D-printed miniature model of Elon Musk and the X logo are seen in this illustration taken Jan. 23, 2025. Photo: REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

Most people do not understand how social media really works. They might think the loudest voices online are simply the most passionate or most informed. In reality, visibility is driven by something far more corrosive.

Social media monetizes attention, and attention is captured most reliably through outrage, fear, and suspicion.

This is not a side effect of the system.