Title: Polarisation, filter bubbles and radicalisation on YouTube: a systematic literature review

Authors: Luis Gustavo Almeida; Ana Cristina Bicharra Garcia; Jefferson Elbert Simões

Addresses: Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil ' Department of Applied Informatics, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil ' Department of Applied Informatics, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil

Abstract: Polarisation and online radicalisation pose significant threats in the modern world. YouTube, particularly its recommendation system - which drives approximately 70% of the platform's audience - has become a focal point of concern. This study presents a systematic literature review of 56 papers, addressing three core research questions to examine the extent, data collection methods, and quantification of problematic content. Our analysis identifies politics as the most polarised domain, revealing a notable convergence of polarisation and disinformation themes. We further emphasise the influential role of other social networks in spreading problematic content. The findings underscore the necessity of distinguishing between polarisation and misinformation in research methodologies, offering a comprehensive overview of the field's current state.

Keywords: YouTube; echo chambers; filter bubbles; polarisation; radicalisation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJWBC.2025.149347

International Journal of Web Based Communities, 2025 Vol.21 No.4, pp.324 - 347

Received: 16 Dec 2023
Accepted: 07 Oct 2024
Published online: 27 Oct 2025 *

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