Resistance or compliance? The impact of algorithmic awareness on people's attitudes toward online information browsing

Introduction: With the pervasive integration of big data algorithms into daily life, individuals increasingly rely on algorithmic filtering to access information of interest, yet face risks such as information cocoons. This study examines how algorithmic awareness influences people’s attitudes toward online information browsing. Methods: Using a 2x2 mixed design (algorithmic awareness × browsing purpose), the study tested mediating roles of perceived power and internal control. Participants completed simulated information-seeking tasks in which all content was randomly presented (algorithm-neutral). Mediation was analyzed using the PROCESS macro. Results: Algorithmic awareness significantly increases people’s compliance, especially when they browse with a specific purpose, despite all information being randomly presented. Algorithmic awareness increases people’s sense of power and internal control over information, which in turn increases algorithmic compliance behavior. Discussion: Algorithmic awareness can reshape user behavior through psychological empowerment even in algorithm-neutral environments. Studying factors that drive compliance or resistance can help users overcome technological unconsciousness and achieve better algorithm use. Keywords: algorithmic consciousness, perceived power, compliance, resistance, internal control

Ying Yuan, Yin Shi, Ti Su, HanXuan Zhang