TikTok faces backlash for promoting 'pretty privilege'
Internal TikTok reports have leaked, revealing that the app promotes users with conventionally "attractive" looks while reducing the visibility of those who deviate from these "standards" of beauty.
18 October 2024 17:11
TikTok is one of the most popular and rapidly expanding social media apps globally. With its substantial user base, it is inevitable that it will encounter controversies and challenges over time. TikTok has frequently been criticised for issues such as inadequate data verification and exposing children to content inappropriate for their age.
The USA has been actively advocating for a permanent ban on the Chinese app, attempting to compel the technology company ByteDance to sell it. Presently, there are lawsuits against TikTok in several states in America. Information from the company's internal reports was disclosed during these court proceedings.
The TikTok algorithm favours attractive people. Is "pretty privilege" real?
National Public Radio reports that internal TikTok documents indicate that it takes only 35 minutes in front of the screen to become addicted to the app. Furthermore, the system supports individuals who adhere to conventionally accepted beauty standards.
Although beauty is a largely subjective concept, if TikTok indeed utilises such methods, it suggests the existence of "pretty privilege," which refers to the favourable treatment of individuals considered attractive.
One reason why many large companies are removing the requirement to include a photo with a CV is to prevent appearance-based bias in recruitment processes.
Authorities in Kentucky claim that TikTok "took active steps to promote a narrow beauty norm even though it could negatively impact their Young Users."
