Virtual space and social media studies

Virtual space and social media studies

Content Moderation Mechanisms in Video Platforms: A Case Study of YouTube

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Assistant Professor of Cyberspace Studies, RICAC.
Abstract
This qualitative study investigates the mechanisms employed by YouTube for content moderation of video content, focusing on the combination of human and automated approaches. By employing a case study methodology and qualitative content analysis, the research examines YouTube's policies, community guidelines, and technological features to understand how the platform manages user-generated content. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating human and automated content moderation practices to address the challenges and complexities of monitoring a vast amount of global content. Findings underscore the need for transparent, consistent, and adaptable content moderation strategies, while also highlighting the potential implications for user behavior and algorithmic bias in automated systems. Recommendations for future research and platform governance are discussed, accentuating the significance of further exploration into the impact and effectiveness of content moderation on YouTube and other online platforms. Overall, the results of this article indicate the complexity of monitoring video content, the increasing use of artificial intelligence to moderate video content, and the risks arising from it. Considering that native platforms are developing in Iran, it is important to pay attention to their governance mechanisms. In this regard, the governance mechanism of a global platform like YouTube, as a video-sharing platform, can serve as a potential model for Iranian platforms.
Keywords

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  • Receive Date 14 April 2024
  • Revise Date 14 May 2024
  • Accept Date 17 May 2024
  • First Publish Date 21 May 2024
  • Publish Date 21 May 2024