Linguist Adam Aleksic Releases ‘Algospeak’ to Decode Social Media’s Impact on Language
At tomorrow’s Kepler’s Books launch, he will show how algorithmic feeds drive attention-grabbing slang that eludes moderation
Overview
- Algospeak draws on Harvard linguistics research and surveys of middle-schoolers to map how short-form video algorithms steer language change.
- Aleksic coins “algospeak” to describe users’ creation of novel grammar, fanilects and euphemisms like “unalive” for community bonding and content-filter evasion.
- He has leveraged his multi-million-strong TikTok, YouTube and Instagram audience to popularize academic insights on the attention economy and online speech.
- Despite platforms commodifying communication for clicks, Aleksic argues language endures as a vital tool for human connection and cultural reflection.
- His public talk at Kepler’s Books on July 18 will unpack the book’s findings and invite dialogue on the future of digital language.