Algorithmic Virality of Erotic Aesthetics and Hierarchies of Desirability
Algorithmic virality is the process by which social media platforms promote user-generated content that receives high levels of engagement, such as likes, shares, comments, and views. This can lead to certain types of content being prioritized over others, creating hierarchies of desirability based on popularity. In recent years, there has been an increase in the algorithmic promotion of erotic aesthetic content, particularly images and videos featuring attractive bodies and identities.
This trend has also led to the creation of hierarchies of desirability that privilege certain bodies and identities while excluding others.
Background: The Rise of Social Media and Erotic Aesthetics
Social media platforms have become increasingly influential in shaping our perceptions of what is considered beautiful and desirable. With the rise of these platforms, users are able to share their own content, including selfies and other forms of personal expression, with a wide audience. As a result, erotic aesthetic content has become more prevalent, with users sharing photos and videos of themselves or others that they find sexually appealing.
The Role of Algorithms in Promoting Erotic Aesthetics
Social media algorithms are designed to analyze user behavior and determine what types of content will be most popular among a specific demographic. This means that content that receives a lot of engagement, such as likes, shares, and comments, is promoted and given greater visibility. As a result, erotic aesthetic content that features attractive bodies and identities is often prioritized by social media algorithms, leading to the creation of hierarchies of desirability.
Hierarchies of Desirability Based on Race, Gender, and Identity
Algorithmic virality can lead to the privileging of certain bodies and identities over others based on factors like race, gender, age, and body type.
White bodies may be more likely to receive algorithmic promotion than Black bodies, cisgender bodies may be more likely to receive algorithmic promotion than transgender bodies, and thin bodies may be more likely to receive algorithmic promotion than fat bodies. These hierarchies of desirability reinforce existing power structures and perpetuate harmful stereotypes about different groups.
Addressing Algorithmic Bias
To address these issues, social media platforms must take steps to address the biases of their algorithms. They should implement measures to promote a wider range of bodies and identities, rather than focusing solely on those that are currently trending.
Users should be encouraged to consume content from diverse sources and not limit themselves to what is presented to them by social media algorithms. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and equitable online space for all users.
How does algorithmic virality of erotic aesthetics create hierarchies of desirability privileging certain bodies and identities?
Algorithmic virality creates hierarchies of desirability that privilege certain bodies and identities by amplifying those images that are most likely to be shared and clicked on. The most popular content is often curated from existing trends and interests, which can lead to a narrowing of the definition of beauty and attraction.