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Youtube

is youtube's algorithm biased the truth revealed!

By Eleanor Vance

Published: 17 May 2025

“The truth isn't always a pleasant thing, but it is necessary to know it nonetheless.”

Is YouTube's Algorithm Biased?

diverse group watching YouTube | Image: Supplied

Okay, let's get real for a sec. Have you ever felt like YouTube is showing you the same kinda videos over and over? Like you're stuck in this weird echo chamber? Yeah, me too! It's easy to start wonderin', is the algorithm biased? Does it really show us what we wanna see, or does it have its own agenda?

What Is the YouTube Algorithm Anyway?

algorithm code on screen | Image: Supplied

So, like, basically, the YouTube algorithm is a super-smart system that decides which videos you see. It looks at a bunch of stuff – what you've watched before, what other people like, even how long you spend watchin' each video. The goal? To keep you watchin' as long as possible. I mean, c'mon, it’s YouTube, gotta keep those eyeballs glued to the screen, right?

The Bias Question: What People Are Sayin'

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Here's where it gets interesting. Some folks think the algorithm definitely has a bias. They say it tends to push people towards more extreme content or keeps showin' them stuff that confirms what they already believe. Think about it – if you watch a video about, I dunno, cats wearing hats, YouTube might start suggestin' even weirder cat videos! It's kinda funny but also a little… concerning?

I read this article last week, can't remember where. It suggested that YouTube sometimes promotes videos that are controversial just to get more clicks and engagement. That's messed up, right? Like, is it really worth it to spread misinformation or divisive content just for views?

Diving Deeper: How the Algorithm Works (Kinda)

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Okay, lemme break this down without getting too techy. The algorithm basically does three main things:

Personalization: It learns what you like and shows you more of it. That’s why after watchin' a bunch of baking videos, you suddenly see every damn baking video under the sun.
Ranking: It decides which videos to show you based on how well they’re performin'. If a video has tons of views and good engagement, it's more likely to pop up in your recommendations.
Filtering: It tries to filter out stuff that’s inappropriate or misleading. But, let's be honest, it doesn’t always do a great job!

Examples in Real Life: My Own YouTube Rabbit Hole

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I can tell you all about this. One time, I was researchin' a new skincare routine (because, aging, ugh!). I watched like, two videos on organic face masks and suddenly, my entire YouTube feed was filled with DIY beauty tips and conspiracy theories about parabens. It was crazy! Like, I just wanted a simple face mask, not a whole new way of life!

And it's not just me. My friend Sarah told me she got sucked into a whole world of decluttering videos after watchin' just one video about Marie Kondo. Now she's convinced she needs to throw out half her possessions! YouTube, man, it's powerful stuff!

What Does This Mean For You?

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So, what does all this mean for you? Well, first off, it means you gotta be aware. Don't just blindly trust what YouTube suggests. Think about what you're watchin' and why you're watchin' it.

Diversify Your Feed: Try searchin' for different topics and channels to break out of the algorithm bubble. Watch somethin' you wouldn't normally watch. Step out of your comfort zone.
Check Your Sources: Make sure the information you're gettin' is legit. Don't believe everything you see on the internet (duh!).
Be Mindful of Your Watch Time: Notice how long you're spendin' on YouTube and what you're gettin' out of it. Is it entertainin' or informative? Or is it just makin' you feel kinda… bleh?

Is YouTube Trying to Fix It?

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Here's the thing – YouTube knows about these concerns. They've been tryin' to make changes to the algorithm to address some of the criticisms. They're supposedly workin' on promoting more diverse content and reducing the spread of misinformation. But honestly, it's a work in progress. And it’s difficult, but important, work.

Conclusion: Stay Smart, Stay Aware

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At the end of the day, the YouTube algorithm is just a tool. It's up to us to use it responsibly. Be aware of its potential biases, diversify your feed, and always think critically about what you're watchin'.

So, next time you're scrollin' through YouTube, take a moment to think about why you're seein' what you're seein'. You might be surprised at what you discover!