In this opinion piece, Jonathan Liew reflects on the state of Elon Musk’s social media platform X (formerly Twitter), arguing that it has become increasingly dominated by misinformation, algorithmic manipulation, and toxic engagement dynamics.

The article highlights how fabricated or misleading content, particularly in sports-related posts, can spread widely and gain traction despite being false, driven by user interaction patterns and the platform’s recommendation system.

The author suggests that X’s algorithm prioritises controversial and emotionally charged content, rewarding replies, debates, and conflict, which in turn amplifies divisive topics such as politics, immigration, and international conflicts.

Liew notes that even though he largely stopped using the platform after deleting his account in 2024, occasional returns via burner accounts reveal what he describes as a worsening information environment.He argues that the volume of fake content and engagement-baiting posts has increased, while meaningful public discourse is increasingly marginalised.

The piece references research indicating that users exposed to algorithmic feeds are more likely to prioritise issues associated with right-leaning political agendas and adopt more polarised viewpoints.The article also explores why many users, including those with progressive views, remain on the platform.

It suggests reasons such as sunk-cost attachment to long-standing networks, nostalgia for earlier versions of Twitter, and the belief that leaving would cede space to bad actors.However, Liew challenges this reasoning, arguing that continued participation helps legitimise and sustain the platform’s influence.He contends that alternative networks have not solved the underlying issues of misinformation and engagement-driven toxicity.

Ultimately, the author calls for users to reconsider their presence on X, framing continued use not as neutral participation but as contributing to a system that, in his view, degrades public discourse and amplifies falsehoods.