Why does perceived popularity influence trust in online opinions?

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Why does perceived popularity influence trust in online opinions?

Asked on Dec 23, 2025

Answer

Perceived popularity often influences trust in online opinions because people tend to associate high engagement, such as likes and shares, with credibility and reliability. This is a common experience on social media platforms where popular posts often appear more prominently in feeds, suggesting a form of social proof.

Example Explanation: On social media, when a post receives a high number of likes or shares, it creates a perception of popularity and credibility. This phenomenon is known as "social proof," where people assume that if others find something valuable or trustworthy, it must be true. This can lead individuals to trust opinions or information based on the volume of engagement rather than the content's actual merit.

Additional Comment:

Social proof is a powerful psychological concept that affects decision-making.
Algorithms often prioritize popular content, reinforcing perceived credibility.
Being aware of this tendency can help individuals critically evaluate online information.

✅ Answered with social media psychology best practices.

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