Censorship and Restrictions: A Stifling Environment

YouTube has instituted nearly 3,000 words and phrases that can trigger content flags or demonetization. The list includes terms related to sensitive topics like abortion, profanity, and various controversies.

In contrast, the divine edicts from the heavens only numbered ten.

The decline began in the mid-2010s when content creators faced increasing constraints on what they could express. Today, YouTube resembles a corporate-controlled platform that prioritizes "acceptable" topics, much like traditional cable television.

These limitations suppress creativity and encourage the creation of bland content devoid of genuine opinions.

Critics, including Vice, have pointed out how these policies have adversely affected crucial content, particularly during significant global events. For instance, politically charged but factual accounts have faced censorship, while vital advocacy content has been obscured.

This raises questions about the concept of "free speech absolutism." Why is this phrase viewed negatively? It seems to imply a level of authoritarianism that should concern us all.

The YouTube Algorithm: A Deteriorating Experience

Do you recall the documentary "The Social Dilemma"?

Released five years too late, it highlighted how algorithms manipulate our behavior and monetize our data, keeping us hooked longer than we should be.

Similarly, the YouTube algorithm is designed to keep you engaged, often at the cost of genuine content discovery.

Source

While Google claims it doesn't sell your data, it does share and exploit it through a mechanism known as "real-time bidding." This system allows third parties to access sensitive user information for targeted advertising.

According to Forbes, Google's RTB system shares data with nearly 1,000 companies.

As Hannah Fry, author of "Hello World: Being Human in the Age of Algorithms," points out: “We don’t have to create a world in which machines are telling us what to do or how to think, although we may very well end up in a world like that.”

What worries me isn't the algorithms themselves but the individuals designing them. What biases do they hold? Are their intentions profit-driven?

Guillaume Chaslot, a former YouTube engineer, expressed his disillusionment, stating that the platform distorts reality to maximize user engagement, neglecting truthfulness and democratic health.

The Theory of a "Dead Internet"

I previously explored the concept of "Dead Internet Theory," which questions the extent of bots, misinformation, and biased algorithms dominating the web.

With Google controlling 92% of searches and YouTube being a primary platform for 73% of American adults, the internet feels stagnant and unoriginal.

It is troubling that so many content creators must rely on one platform for their earnings and visibility. This creates an anti-competitive environment that stifles creativity.

YouTube desperately needs a legitimate competitor, similar to how Sam Bankman-Fried needs a prison cell next to the infamous Son of Sam.

Interestingly, blockchain technology could address YouTube's monopolistic grip by empowering users and creators. While it may not solve every issue, giving individuals control over their destinies is a crucial step forward.

Final Reflections

To be fair, YouTube does offer a generous revenue share of 55%, which is commendable compared to other platforms. However, as they consolidate their market power, it’s no surprise that the platform has seen a decline in quality.

Ultimately, I have decided to remove YouTube from my phone. I’ll still check in with a few favorite creators, but I need a break from the algorithm and its inherent censorship.

At this moment, YouTube feels more detrimental than beneficial. Perhaps that will change, but only time will tell.

Look out for my upcoming podcast on Substack!

A critical exploration of YouTube's decline and its impact.

An analysis of how the golden age of YouTube has come to an end.