When Instagram announced its new algorithm that would prioritise popular content in feeds, over 340,000 people signed a petition against it. Now, influencers are forming private ‘pods’ to support each other’s posts in defence against the change. But why is there such concern over online snaps?

Brands have long used famous faces in adverts to reliably boost the awareness and sales of their products. But what is it about star endorsements that make people stop and pay attention? And how is a desire for authenticity changing the expectations for celebrity partnerships?

In the wake of the steepest drop in trust in recent history, established business, media, and government institutions are being eyed with suspicion. Canvas8 spoke with Rachel Botsman, author ofWho Can You Trust?, to understand who holds sway in the midst of a global trust implosion.

Social media has enabled people to share content with a click, but why do certain videos and news stories spread across the web? Canvas8 spoke with Jonah Berger, author ofContagious: Why Things Catch On,to understand online virality and the ways our digital spaces affect the content we consume.