How Does Algorithmic Promotion of Erotic Aesthetics Reinforce Cultural Hierarchies of Desirability?
Algorithmic promotion refers to the process whereby an algorithm selects content to be displayed based on a user's preferences and past behavior. This type of promotion is used widely in social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. In recent years, there has been increasing awareness of how this type of promotion can reinforce cultural hierarchies of desirability. Specifically, algorithmic promotion of erotic aesthetics perpetuates societal beliefs about what is considered sexy or attractive. By promoting certain types of bodies, behaviors, and experiences, these algorithms reinforce stereotypes and biases that are often harmful to individuals who do not fit into those norms. In this article, I will explore the ways in which algorithmic promotion of erotic aesthetics reinforces cultural hierarchies of desirability.
It is important to understand what is meant by "cultural hierarchies of desirability." These refer to the values and beliefs held within a society regarding which physical traits, behaviors, and experiences are desirable.
In Western culture, thinness and blonde hair are often seen as more desirable than larger body sizes and darker skin tones. Similarly, heterosexual relationships are often presented as the ideal, while same-sex relationships are marginalized or even stigmatized. These cultural hierarchies are deeply ingrained in our society and have profound impacts on individual experiences.
Algorithmic promotion can exacerbate these issues by selectively promoting certain types of content.
An Instagram user may be shown images of conventionally attractive people or couples in their feed. This may lead them to believe that these bodies, behaviors, and relationships are the only ones worth pursuing, leading to negative consequences for those who do not conform to these standards.
Algorithmic promotion can create a feedback loop whereby users become more likely to engage with content that aligns with their preferences, further perpetuating these norms.
Algorithmic promotion can also reinforce stereotypes about gender roles and sexuality.
Algorithms may promote images of women in submissive positions or men engaging in hypermasculine activities such as weightlifting or hunting. This can contribute to harmful gender stereotypes that limit individuals' ability to explore their full range of expression. It can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes about non-heteronormative identities, such as bisexuality or transgenderism, which can lead to increased discrimination and violence against members of these groups.
Algorithmic promotion can reinforce racist and classist beliefs. Content that is deemed "attractive" is often associated with whiteness, wealth, and privilege.
Many social media platforms feature models and influencers who fit these criteria, while underrepresenting other races, ethnicities, or socioeconomic backgrounds. This can perpetuate the myth that white or upper-class individuals are inherently more desirable than others, leading to increased prejudice and exclusion.
Algorithmic promotion of erotic aesthetics reinforces cultural hierarchies of desirability by selectively promoting certain types of bodies, behaviors, relationships, genders, and identities. This perpetuates societal biases and stereotypes that can have negative consequences for individuals who do not conform to these standards. As such, it is essential to be aware of how this type of promotion works and its impact on our society.
How does algorithmic promotion of erotic aesthetics reinforce cultural hierarchies of desirability?
Algorithmic promotion of erotic aesthetics, such as the beauty standards promoted by social media algorithms, can reinforce cultural hierarchies of desirability in multiple ways. Firstly, it perpetuates existing ideals of attractiveness that are often based on Eurocentric, white, cisgender, heteronormative, and ableist norms.