[BostonCard]

The fundamental problem that Youtube (and twitter and facebook) have complex algorithms that amplify certain videos, posts, or messages and suppress others.  The result is that controversial videos like this are not just on the platform, they are promoted by the algorithm (because the algorithms are tuned to amplify stuff that generates strong reactions, including controversial items).

I agree with others that actual video takedowns should be rare and only if they contain illegal material or material that might be dangerous (for example, a video suggesting that drinking methanol would prevent COVID-19 [not sure what to do about POTUS suggesting that injecting bleach would be a good idea]).

But there is a lot of stuff that doesn't meet that standard, but which social media shouldn't necessarily be promoting.  For stuff that is in the gray area, Youtube and other should have a flag that removes it from the algorithm so that it can remain on the platform, but would only be seen if someone specifically goes to it.  It would thus be hidden from being autoplayed, being recommended when someone views a different video, would not land on the homepage, and thus would not be amplified.

BC

[BostonCard]

The fundamental problem that Youtube (and twitter and facebook) have complex algorithms that amplify certain videos, posts, or messages and suppress others.  The result is that controversial videos like this are not just on the platform, they are promoted by the algorithm (because the algorithms are tuned to amplify stuff that generates strong reactions, including controversial items).

I agree with others that actual video takedowns should be rare and only if they contain illegal material or material that might be dangerous (for example, a video suggesting that drinking methanol would prevent COVID-19 [not sure what to do about POTUS suggesting that injecting bleach would be a good idea]).

But there is a lot of stuff that doesn't meet that standard, but which social media shouldn't necessarily be promoting.  For stuff that is in the gray area, Youtube and other should have a flag that removes it from the algorithm so that it can remain on the platform, but would only be seen if someone specifically goes to it.  It would thus be hidden from being autoplayed, being recommended when someone views a different video, would not land on the homepage, and thus would not be amplified.

BC