Yigit Taha OZTURK 
Elon Musk has faced significant backlash after announcing changes to the X social media algorithm. The new algorithm will prioritize informative and educational content over other types of posts.
Musk explained the rationale behind these changes, citing “too much negativity” on the platform. On January 3, he stated in a social media post:
“Our goal is to maximize un-regretted user-seconds. Too much negativity is being pushed that technically grows user time, but not un-regretted user time.”
However, many users described the algorithm change as a form of censorship and questioned who would define “negativity” on the platform. Independent journalist James Li asked Musk, “How does the algorithm determine ‘negativity’?”
Controversy Over H-1B Visas
The announcement came shortly after a heated debate regarding Musk allegedly removing premium features from certain accounts. This followed his comments suggesting that the U.S. immigration system should be reformed to attract top global talent.
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Musk’s remarks sparked backlash from right-wing influencers, who argued that the U.S. doesn’t have a talent shortage and instead needs reduced immigration rates. After the debate, several right-wing figures accused Musk of revoking premium features and monetization rights from their accounts.
Vitalik Buterin Calls for Free Speech
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin weighed in, urging Musk to uphold freedom of speech on the platform. Buterin stated:
“Respecting free speech is easy when we agree with the speech, and hard when we think it’s awful. But the arguments for respecting free speech anyway are the same as ever: the banhammer is controlled by one group today, it will be controlled by another group tomorrow.”
This latest controversy follows Musk’s ongoing clash with the Brazilian government over censorship issues, which ultimately led to X being banned in the South American nation.
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