“O Segredo do Algoritmo”, broadcast on the RTP Notícias channel, returns with a new season this Saturday, 5 September, at 7.30 pm. The programme aims to explain and decode how the most popular content on social media works — in other words, the topics shaping the current news agenda. “O Segredo do Algoritmo” features analysis by Gustavo Cardoso, Professor at Iscte – IUL and Portugal coordinator of the IBERIFIER project.
In the last edition, in July, the programme explored how the subject of the National Exams was discussed by young people and families on social media. Gustavo Cardoso explains that, as doubts about the process began to increase, so did the amount of content being shared about the subject. Young people find social media a way to express their emotions while also recognising experiences similar to their own. Feelings of anxiety and anticipation were shared, commented on and amplified.
“O Segredo do Algoritmo”, broadcast weekly on RTP Notícias and available on RTP Play, is an initiative aimed at explaining the content published on social media and its impact. The programme also seeks to analyse how algorithms and the circulation of content influence what users see and share.
The programme is produced through a partnership between RTP and ISCTE-MEDIALAB and features Gustavo Cardoso. The first season premiered in November 2025, while the second season began in February 2026.
