How we perceive search engines

Abstract

This article presents a literature review related to users’ perceptions about search engines. Its motivation was establish an information source upon a topic that directly affects people’s interactions with these tools and currently is scattered in the literature. It was discussed impact generated in users’ behavior by the confidence degree in the companies producing search engines and by credit given to algorithms responsible for selection and ordering of results. It was also analyzed the public view about impartiality, accuracy and reliability of these tools.