Algospeak: An Examination of Internet Slang and Codes
In a recent conversation with host Flora Lichtman, linguist and TikToker Adam Aleksic discussed the impact of algorithms and social media on language development, a topic explored in his new book, "Algospeak: How Social Media is Transforming the Future of Language."
Aleksic explains that social media platforms and algorithms play a significant role in shaping the development of Gen Alpha slang and the future of language. He argues that algorithmic censorship and optimization have led to the creation of new linguistic forms and slang as users adapt their language to be visible and acceptable within the constraints of these platforms.
"Algospeak" refers to the language developed on social media, and in his book, Aleksic uses data, surveys, and internet archival research to explore how these algorithms invisibly drive language change. This results in younger generations, including Gen Alpha, developing unique modes of expression that are optimized for engagement and censorship evasion on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, fundamentally transforming how language evolves and functions.
Some listeners of the conversation proposed new words they hoped would become widely used, but Aleksic clarified that these proposed words are not part of the "Algospeak" language discussed in his book. While he listens to suggestions for new words from his listeners, the language development in the internet age is a topic of legitimate study, according to Aleksic, but it is not a focus of his expertise when it comes to words proposed by listeners that are not currently in widespread use or related to the transformation of language due to social media.
In conclusion, "Algospeak" presents social media algorithms as active agents in shaping contemporary and future language, fostering new slang and linguistic patterns among Gen Alpha that reflect both technological constraints and cultural creativity within digital communication. For more insights on this topic, be sure to check out Adam Aleksic's new book, "Algospeak: How Social Media is Transforming the Future of Language."
Technology and entertainment intertwine as Gen Alpha, influenced by algorithms and social media, create unique slang and linguistic patterns, optimized for engagement on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, thereby fundamentally transforming the entertainment landscape. This digital communication, termed "Algospeak," offers a glimpse into the future of language, revealing how social media has become an active agent in shaping contemporary language and culture.
