Social capital in times of algorithms

Abstract

This article discusses the (im)possibilities of social capital distribution and the analysis of relationships engendered by mediation technologies on social networking platforms. It questions whether content performance metrics, such as engagement quantities, are, in fact, indicators of social capital flow. It is based on a non-systematic literature review that articulates a critical analysis of classic authors dealing with social capital and network relationships with recent studies on the outcomes of communication mediated by social networking platforms. Particular attention was given to ensure that the bibliography represented different international contexts. The research indicated that publication performance statistics are superficial if the objective of the analysis is the flow of social capital and real relevance, considering that they reflect performance outcomes dictated by algorithmic logics. It concludes by highlighting the need for analyses that take into consideration multiple indicators, both qualitative and quantitative, to enable a more in-depth understanding of relationships within these environments.