How might the algorithmic curation of potential partners shape unconscious sexual preferences and biases?
The word "curate" comes from Latin, meaning to care for or look after something. It is often used today to refer to the process of selecting and presenting works of art, music, or literature that are deemed culturally significant or artistically valuable. In recent years, online dating platforms have begun using algorithms to curate potential matches for their users based on certain criteria, such as age range, location, interests, and physical appearance. But how does this kind of curated selection affect people's perceptions of what they find attractive in a partner? And could it be shaping unconscious sexual preferences and biases?
One way in which algorithmic curation may influence sexual preferences is through the presentation of idealized versions of beauty and desirability. Many dating apps feature pictures of models and celebrities, which create an artificial standard of beauty that many users feel pressure to live up to. This can lead to a narrow view of what is considered attractive and desirable, and may reinforce unrealistic expectations about one's own body or looks.
Some studies suggest that exposure to images of thin or muscular bodies can increase negative attitudes towards obesity, leading to weight stigma and discrimination.
Another way in which algorithmic curation shapes sexual preferences is by creating filters that limit the number of possible matches.
If a user only wants to see people who are taller than them, or who share the same religious beliefs, then that person will not be exposed to individuals who don't meet those criteria. This can result in a homogenous pool of potential partners, with little diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, age, or socioeconomic status. This can perpetuate stereotypes and prejudices, making it difficult for people to broaden their horizons and experience different types of relationships.
Algorithmic curation can also shape biases around gender roles and power dynamics within relationships. Dating apps often ask users to fill out information about themselves, such as occupation, education level, and income, which can then be used to match them with other users who fit those criteria. This kind of data-driven matching can perpetuate traditional gender roles and stereotypes, as well as privilege certain kinds of careers and lifestyles over others. It can also reinforce the idea that men should have more financial stability and success than women, further contributing to existing gender disparities in pay and power.
Algorithms may encourage users to focus on superficial characteristics when choosing a partner, rather than deeper qualities like shared values or compatibility. This can lead to shallow connections based on physical attraction alone, rather than true emotional connection or mutual respect. And because many dating apps rely on swiping right or left, this encourages users to make quick decisions based on surface-level traits, rather than taking the time to get to know someone better.
Algorithmic curation has the potential to shape unconscious sexual preferences and biases by presenting narrow views of beauty and desirability, limiting exposure to diverse partners, reinforcing gendered norms, and prioritizing surface-level traits over meaningful connection. While these platforms provide a convenient way to meet new people, it is important for users to be aware of how their choices are shaped by the platform itself, and take steps to challenge any unconscious biases they may hold.
How might the algorithmic curation of potential partners shape unconscious sexual preferences and biases?
With the increasing popularity of dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, OkCupid, and others, users have become more reliant on algorithms to curate their matches. These algorithms are designed to analyze user data such as location, age, gender, interests, hobbies, etc. , to match them with potential partners who they may be compatible with based on similarities.