A Study on Users' Algorithmic Imagination and Counter-Domestication Behavior from the Perspective of Media Affordances: The Case of the "Momo" Phenomenon

Abstract

This paper takes the "momo" phenomenon as a case study, examining users' algorithmic imagination and counter-domestication behaviors toward social platform algorithms through the three dimensions of media affordances: production affordance, social affordance, and mobile affordance. By analyzing the dissemination and underlying mechanisms of the "momo" phenomenon, it reveals how users leverage media affordances to resist and protect themselves against algorithmic constraints and potential risks. The study further explores the relationship between algorithmic visibility in platform society and users' algorithmic imagination reflected in this phenomenon, while discussing its implications for the future development of social platforms and user-algorithm interaction practices.