Mary Gates Research Scholar, Winter 2025
Research Project: Examining the Structures of the Alt-Tech World: A Typology of Five Alt-Tech Platforms’ Policies
Project Description: Alternative-technology (alt-tech) platforms like Telegram, Truth Social, and Rumble have emerged as self-proclaimed free speech hubs, appealing to distrust in governments and tech companies. While alt-tech platforms remain niche, they play a growing role in political communication and have contributed to real-world events, such as the January 6 Capitol attack. Despite their influence, research on these platforms remains limited compared to mainstream social media studies. This study develops a typology of five right-wing alt-tech platforms—Rumble, Truth Social, Gab, Gettr, and Telegram—analyzing their ownership structures, monetization models, and content moderation policies. By examining how these platforms’ designs and financial incentives influence content production and user behavior, the study aims to provide insights into their role in shaping online information ecosystems. Prior research has examined individual alt-tech platforms, such as Bitchute, and broader comparisons between mainstream and alt-tech platforms. However, this study offers a comparative analysis focused exclusively on alt-tech platforms, identifying patterns in governance, incentive structures, and policy enforcement. Findings from this research could inform policymakers on potential regulatory approaches, including ownership transparency, antitrust interventions, and content accountability measures. Additionally, technologists and platform developers may leverage these insights to design more transparent governance frameworks for alternative digital spaces. By addressing gaps in current social media research, this study enhances public understanding of alt-tech platforms and their growing influence in digital discourse and political communication.
What have you learned throughout your research project?
Throughout my research and leadership experiences, I’ve learned how critical it is to balance analytical rigor with real-world empathy. I came to understand that effective research is more than just about collecting data, it’s also about asking the right questions.
What piece of advice do you have for future applicants?
My biggest piece of advice is: don’t wait until you feel 100% ready. Apply anyway. The Mary Gates Research and Leadership programs are designed to support students who are curious, committed, and eager to grow, not just those who already have it all figured out. If you care deeply about your topic or community, that passion will come through.