The surveillance experience on YouTube, where creators are watched by algorithms (demonetization, shadowbanning), viewers are tracked (watch history, recommendations), and commenters are monitored by automated filters and community flags. The Panopticon is felt most acutely by creators, who internalize the algorithm’s preferences, tailoring content to avoid punishment. Viewers also feel it: a “problematic” comment can lead to harassment, a disliked video can attract mobs. The YouTube Panopticon produces a homogenized platform where risk-averse conformity replaces genuine expression.
Example: “She scripted her video carefully, avoiding any word that might trigger demonetization—the YouTube Panopticon had trained her to pre‑censor for an invisible algorithmic judge.”
by Abzugal April 6, 2026
Get the YouTube Panopticon mug.Related Words