Perceptions of algorithmic exploitation, control, and separation: Instagram and Spotify examples

The meaning of the "algorithm", which technically expresses the set of rules to be followed, has transformed as softwares with power, that decides what content we should consume instead of us nowadays, when social media and digital platforms are getting more important. Algorithms operating with systematic monitoring, recording all the data we create, classifying us within certain social groups, and exposing us to the contents according to these categories; remind the theories of surveillance. In this thesis; "algorithmic capitalism" is discussed, in the context of exploitation of our data, or marketing us consumer or cultural goods within the framework of the categories we are classified; "algorithmic control" is discussed, in the context of the systems that determine each of us by making us watch consumer or cultural goods that refer only to different social frameworks; and "algorithmic separation" is discussed in the context of making us stuck in our own social framework and therefore, making it difficult to understand the "other." To describe which of these contexts exist and how important they are in social reality, qualitative research was conducted with 36 participants. In conclusion, it is understood that participants are concious about the algorithmic processes. However, it is determined that the participants those in the high-income group who can clearly define themselves in cultural or political contexts, did not have concerns. It is also understood that the algorithms, generate profit by processing or directly producing existing class, political or cultural distances, and therefore, they also destroy publicity and sociality. Keywords: Algorithms, Social media, Surveillence capitalism, Echo chamber, Digital labor