Musk promises less negativity on X—but who decides what that means?

Elon Musk has announced a significant change to the way X, formerly known as Twitter, curates content for its users. According to Musk, the platform will adjust its algorithms to reduce negativity and prioritize what he calls “maximizing unregretted user seconds.” The goal, he suggested, is to create a more positive experience for users.

@libertyshieldnetwork X Algorithms #veteran #military #navy #militarylife ♬ original sound – Liberty Shield Network

At first glance, the change may seem beneficial—less negativity, fewer arguments, and a more enjoyable social media experience. But is it really that simple?

Social media algorithms, including those used by X, are not designed to make users happy. Instead, they are built to maximize engagement, keeping people clicking, scrolling, and consuming content for as long as possible—ultimately driving ad revenue.

As history has shown, major content creators and bad actors alike quickly adapt to algorithm shifts. Manipulative accounts looking to spread misinformation or push agendas will likely find new ways to work within the updated system. While their content may appear more positive, the underlying intent could remain the same.

Another concern is the definition of “positive” versus “negative” content. What qualifies as negativity—and who decides? Throughout history, some of the most important societal changes have come from hard-hitting truths that challenge the status quo. If certain content is deprioritized under the new algorithm, it could limit exposure to critical discussions that drive real change.

While many agree that social media has become increasingly toxic, changes to content moderation and algorithmic filtering should be approached with caution. Users should remain critical of what they see, verify information from credible sources, and recognize that a more curated feed does not necessarily mean a more truthful one.