The prevalence of sponsored content on the Facebook platform is directly linked to its revenue generation model. Facebook, as a publicly traded company, is obligated to maximize shareholder value, and advertising constitutes a significant portion of its income. This necessitates the incorporation of commercial messages within the user experience. These messages are not arbitrarily placed; they are targeted based on user data, browsing history, and declared interests.
The use of advertising allows Facebook to offer its core services, including social networking, communication tools, and content sharing, free of charge to its vast user base. This business model contrasts with subscription-based platforms, relying instead on the indirect monetization of user attention through targeted advertising. This approach has allowed Facebook to achieve global scale and dominance in the social media landscape, becoming an integral part of many individuals’ daily routines. The evolution of online advertising has also contributed to the sophistication and frequency of commercial messages on the platform.