YouTube turns 20, and what was once a simple platform for sharing videos has evolved into a behemoth with 2.5 billion users – and its fair share of darker aspects. Several studies have shown that its algorithm tends to reward controversy and extremism, which is pretty concerning. So, how did it go from being a harmless space for homemade videos to a breeding ground for polarization?
It’s kinda wild to think about, but YouTube’s now a major player in spreading conspiracy content and fueling political radicalization. Take, for instance, characters like Amadeo Lladós, who’s made a name for himself as a self-proclaimed “professional fitness” guru, or Dani Esteve, the leader of Desokupa – both of whom have found massive followings on the platform. It seems like YouTube’s created a culture that rewards influencers who peddle success stories based on, well, making “burpees” and not being a “mileurist.” The common thread among these personalities is that they’ve all managed to monetize their content and find their niche on the platform.
As Juan de la Herrán, a cybersecurity professor at Euneiz University, puts it, “conspiracy theories and extreme views, whether from the left or right, are what tend to generate the most interest – especially among young people.” It’s a phenomenon that raises questions about the platform’s impact on our collective psyche. I mean, what does it say about us that we’re more drawn to controversy and sensationalism than, say, nuance and substance?
How did YouTube come to be?
The platform’s origins are pretty fascinating. One of its creators uploaded the first video, which marked the beginning of YouTube’s journey from a humble video-sharing portal to a full-fledged business. The rise of the influencer figure has been a key factor in this transformation, with many individuals building careers around creating content that resonates with their audiences. And let’s not forget Google, which bought the platform 19 years ago – the more time users spend on YouTube, the more ads are displayed, and the more money Google makes. It’s a pretty straightforward equation, really.