A recent study conducted by the Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) has found that TikTok algorithms actively suppress and censor any content that is critical of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) regime. Researchers claim TikTok promotes a pro-China narrative while limiting exposure to perspectives critical of Beijing. Let’s get into the details!
Table of Contents
NCRI Study
The NCRI study used a multi-pronged approach to analyze TikTok’s content moderation practices:
1. Algorithm analysis
NCRI created fake user accounts on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to analyze search results for keywords related to China’s human rights issues like “Tiananmen”, “Uyghur”, etc.
2. Content classification
Over 3,400 videos were reviewed and classified as pro-China, anti-China, neutral or irrelevant based on the keywords.
3. User survey
A survey of over 1,200 TikTok users in the US examined if time spent on the platform impacted views on China.
Key Findings of Study
1. Limited Anti-China Content
When searching terms associated with human rights issues, TikTok provided far less anti-China content than YouTube or Instagram. For example, only 2.3% of “Xinjiang” videos on TikTok were considered anti-China, versus 21.7% on YouTube and 17.3% on Instagram. This disparity suggests TikTok may suppress critical discussions.
2. Amplified Pro-China Narratives
Conversely, the study found TikTok amplified videos supporting China’s official positions. Over 26% of “Tiananmen Square” videos promoted a pro-China narrative, compared to just 7.7% on YouTube. 30.1% of “Tibet” videos echoed China’s viewpoints, the highest rate among platforms. This indicates TikTok may algorithmically boost state-approved content.
3. Influence on User Perceptions
Surveying heavy TikTok users, the researchers discovered their views appeared to align more closely with Beijing over time. Compared to non-users, heavy TikTok viewers showed a 49% increase in positively rating China’s human rights record. In contrast, using YouTube or Instagram didn’t significantly impact perceptions. This suggests TikTok could potentially manipulate perspectives.
Impacts of TikTok Algorithms
With over 1 billion active users worldwide, including many minors in the West, TikTok’s algorithms shape the information diet of a vast population. If it limits access to certain viewpoints while promoting state narratives, as this study argues, the platform could subtly indoctrinate users, especially the young, without their knowledge.
Over time, this may help Beijing soften criticism of its policies and actions from abroad. With Americans spending more time on TikTok than YouTube, according to one report, the potential for influence is concerning.
Limitations of the Study
However, the research faced some limitations and criticisms as well. Its methods and small sample size have been called scientifically flawed. And it’s difficult to definitively prove algorithms alone caused changes in complex geopolitical views. More robust, peer-reviewed studies are still needed. TikTok also denies any political influence, stating it moderates content neutrally.
Moving Forward
The study provides strong evidence that TikTok algorithms actively censor criticism of the Chinese regime to shape favourable views among global audiences about China, especially young users. This has concerning implications and needs urgent intervention.
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