Algorithms have become increasingly important in determining what media we consume, including films, TV shows, music, books, podcasts, news stories, and more.
They also play an influential role in shaping our perception of society and culture by filtering out certain perspectives and experiences that are deemed unacceptable or undesirable by those in power. This has been especially true for LGBTQ+ individuals who have faced discrimination, marginalization, and oppression throughout history. As algorithms become more advanced and widespread, it is crucial to examine how they influence which narratives about queerness we see and which remain hidden.
Let's consider the algorithmic gatekeepers that control the flow of content. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok rely heavily on algorithms to determine which posts and videos users see in their feeds. These algorithms take into account a range of factors such as user engagement, demographics, location, interests, and even political affiliation when deciding what content to promote. The result is that dominant narratives surrounding straight cisgender people tend to get prioritized while alternative voices go unheard.
If you search "gay" on Google Images, most results will feature images of men kissing or holding hands, reinforcing the idea that gay relationships are exclusively sexual rather than romantic or loving. This narrow viewpoint ignores the diverse experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
Streaming services like Netflix use complex algorithms to recommend movies and TV shows based on user preferences.
These algorithms may be biased towards certain genres or themes that align with traditional heteronormative values, leaving out stories that focus on non-heterosexual characters or experiences. This can create a homogenous landscape where only certain kinds of LGBTQ+ narratives are visible, thus silencing those who do not fit into this mold.
Another way algorithms impact LGBTQ+ representation is through search engine optimization (SEO). SEO is a technique used by businesses and organizations to increase visibility online by ranking higher in search results for specific keywords. But it also has implications for media consumption. Companies that invest in SEO often have more resources and power, making it harder for independent creators and publishers to break through. As a result, their work may not reach as many audiences, limiting the diversity of perspectives available.
Personalization algorithms, which aim to provide users with content tailored to their interests and preferences, may reinforce existing prejudices and stereotypes.
If you frequently watch straight romances, your algorithm might suggest similar movies featuring cisgender male and female leads, excluding any queer alternatives. While personalization can be helpful, it should not be at the expense of diverse storytelling.
Algorithms play a significant role in determining what we see and don't see when it comes to LGBTQ+ representation. They promote dominant narratives, exclude alternative voices, and reinforce harmful stereotypes. To combat this issue, companies must prioritize inclusivity and diversity in their algorithms and encourage a broader range of content creation. Users can also seek out alternative platforms or engage with marginalized perspectives to counteract these effects.
We need to recognize the impact of algorithms on our cultural landscape and work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive world where all stories are heard.
How do algorithms influence which LGBT narratives are seen and which are suppressed?
Algorithms play an important role in determining which content is visible to the public on social media platforms, including LGBT narratives. These algorithms prioritize content that receives high engagement rates, such as likes, shares, and comments, and they may be influenced by factors such as user demographics, location, and behavioral patterns.