Why is YouTube Filled with False and Clickbait Videos?

"Why are there so many fake videos on YouTube" is the proper wording. People create these videos with a primary goal: to generate a lot of views and, consequently, earn money. They exploit the platform's algorithm, using misleading titles, thumbnails, and thumbnails to entice clicks. Some creators even go as far as committing copyright infringement to grab attention. It's a method to exploit curiosity and generate profits, often at the expense of truth and quality content.

From Amateur to Corporate Giants

In its early days, from 2005 to 2010, YouTube was more of an amateur platform. Videos were often produced by enthusiasts and enthusiasts, and their content was usually more genuine. However, as the user base grew, the platform's focus shifted towards profitability. Following Google's acquisition in 2006, YouTube transitioned into a more corporate entity. The platform embraced a tabloid journalism model, where the front cover of a magazine is used to entice a viewer; similar to this, YouTube thumbnails and titles are designed to be attention-grabbing, regardless of the content's relevance.

Subverting Trust and Credibility

The problem lies in how these misleading elements can subvert the viewer's trust. While tabloid magazines usually don't fully match the misleading fronts, many YouTube videos take the concept to a new level. They use unverified or downright false claims, which can result in fake content that is a complete fabrication. This is not just misleading but also potentially harmful. Here are some examples:

Clickbait Examples

Bigfoot Skull Claim: A video claiming to have found a bigfoot skull was revealed to be a fake. The skull was purchased from a fake bone cloning website and placed in a mud pit. This type of content can mislead viewers, especially those who are not well-informed. Ghost Recording in Caves: A video demonstrating a man recording ghosts in caves was another case of misleading content. Despite scientific evidence indicating that ghosts have not been recorded, this YouTuber consistently posted videos in caves, supposedly capturing ghostly whispers. These videos showcase how clickbait can exploit people's desire for the extraordinary, even if it's just a recording of gibberish.

The Impact on YouTube's Quality

YouTube isn't a state-run educational resource; it's a private corporation heavily focused on entertainment and revenue generation. This shift has impacted the quality and authenticity of content available on the platform. The emphasis on drive-through clickbait over authentic, educational, or artistic content is problematic. It skews the platform's algorithm, benefiting creators who can generate the most clicks instead of those who produce genuinely valuable content.

It's crucial to recognize that YouTube has the capability to change its direction. Real leadership could work towards reversing this trend and bringing back a more balanced and high-quality content ecosystem. This would involve stricter content moderation and algorithmic adjustments to promote genuine creators and content.

Conclusion

Despite the current landscape, it's not too late for YouTube to correct its course. By prioritizing the quality of its content and the well-being of its viewers, YouTube can return to its roots as a platform for genuine and valuable information. Viewers, too, can play a role by supporting content creators who produce truthful and meaningful content.