The YouTube Algorithm and the Alt-Right Filter Bubble

Lauren Valentino Bryant

doi:10.1515/opis-2020-0007

Abstract

AbstractThe YouTube algorithm is a combination of programmed directives from engineers along with learned behaviors that have evolved through the opaque process of machine learning which makes the algorithm’s directives and programming hard to understand. Independent tests to replicate the algorithm have shown that the algorithm has a strong bias towards right-leaning politics videos, including those racist views expressed by the alt-right community. While the algorithm seems to be pushing users towards the alt-right video content merely in an attempt to keep users in a cycle of video watching, the end result makes YouTube a powerful recruiting tool for Neo-Nazis and the alt-right. The filter bubble effect that this creates pushes users into a loop that reinforces radicalism instead of level-headed factual resources.

Highlights

The YouTube algorithm is a combination of programmed directives from engineers along with learned behaviors that have evolved through the opaque process of machine learning which makes the algorithm’s directives and programming hard to understand
Independent tests to replicate the algorithm have shown that the algorithm has a strong bias towards right-leaning politics videos, including those racist views expressed by the alt-right community
Pockets of users with a racist or political agenda found that they could manipulate the algorithm and take control of the way content was presented through both Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and alignment with political structures

Summary

Introduction

The YouTube algorithm is a combination of programmed directives from engineers along with learned behaviors that have evolved through the opaque process of machine learning which makes the algorithm’s directives and programming hard to understand. Youtube’s video recommendation system may be promoting racist viewpoints which is distorting the overall perception of content on YouTube as a whole, a dangerous misunderstanding since the platform has taken on the responsibility of providing amusement and entertainment for the masses, but informing and educating them as well.

Results

Conclusion