Big Technology Podcast Does YouTube Radicalize? A Debate Between NYT's Kevin Roose and Software Engineer Mark Ledwich
Jan 6, 2021
Kevin Roose, a New York Times reporter known for his work on online radicalization, and Mark Ledwich, a software engineer and researcher, engage in a thought-provoking debate about YouTube's influence. Roose discusses a chilling case study of radicalization through YouTube, while Ledwich counters with evidence suggesting the platform's role is overstated. They dive into YouTube's recommendation algorithms, media bias, content moderation challenges, and even touch on the competition with TikTok, leaving listeners pondering the complexities of technology's societal impacts.
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Caleb Cain's Journey
- Kevin Roose investigated Caleb Cain's radicalization through YouTube.
- Cain, originally a liberal, became alt-right through YouTube's recommendations but later de-radicalized via BreadTube.
Not an Isolated Case
- Many similar stories exist, suggesting this isn't an isolated incident.
- YouTube's changes to its algorithm and policies indicate the problem's significance.
Recommendations: A Gentle Breeze
- Mark Ledwich argues that YouTube recommendations are a minor factor in radicalization.
- Larger societal factors play a more significant role, like a "storm" compared to a "gentle breeze".