Tim’s TikTok Feed: A Window into the Far-Right Ecosystem

Insights into the TikTok Behavior of a Potential AfD Supporter

Introduction

In the lead-up to the 2021 German federal election, social media platforms such as TikTok have become a major battleground for political parties and candidates. One of the most concerning trends is the proliferation of far-right content and the potential for it to influence vulnerable young voters.

This analysis takes a deep dive into the TikTok feed of Tim, an 18-year-old German soldier who has publicly expressed his intention to vote for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. By examining the videos that have been shown to Tim on TikTok, we gain unique insights into the interests and biases that the platform’s algorithm has identified in him.

Tim’s Interests: Military, History, and Far-Right Propaganda

Upon opening the TikTok app, Tim is presented with a personalized feed of videos tailored to his interests. A significant portion of these videos revolve around the military, reflecting his occupation as a Bundeswehr soldier. Many of the military-themed videos feature glorifications of German history and military prowess, often with nationalistic undertones.

In addition to military content, Tim is also shown a considerable number of videos related to history, particularly focusing on German emperors and kings. These videos often romanticize the past and promote a nostalgic longing for a bygone era. Notably, some of these videos also feature imagery and rhetoric associated with the Nazi regime, such as the swastika and references to Adolf Hitler.

Examples of Far-Right Content Shown to Tim

• A video of a SpongeBob SquarePants character singing "I am Adolf Hitler."
• A video of a far-right politician giving a speech about the "threat to German culture."
• A video of a neo-Nazi group marching through a German city.

The TikTok Algorithm: Reinforcement and Polarization

The TikTok algorithm is designed to keep users engaged by presenting them with content that they are likely to find interesting and compelling. As Tim interacts with the platform, the algorithm learns more about his preferences and adjusts his feed accordingly. This can lead to a reinforcement loop, where Tim is shown more and more content that aligns with his existing beliefs and biases.

Over time, this reinforcement loop can lead to polarization, where individuals become increasingly entrenched in their own ideological echo chambers and less exposed to alternative viewpoints. In Tim’s case, the algorithm’s focus on military-themed content and far-right propaganda has likely contributed to his strong identification with the AfD party.

Conclusion: Implications for the Election

The analysis of Tim’s TikTok feed provides valuable insights into the role that social media is playing in the spread of far-right ideology among young voters in Germany. The algorithm’s tendency to reinforce existing beliefs and create echo chambers can have a powerful polarizing effect, making it more difficult for individuals to critically evaluate different political perspectives.

As the German federal election approaches, it is crucial for voters to be aware of the potential influence of far-right propaganda on social media platforms. By understanding the tactics used by these groups and the ways in which they exploit the algorithms of social media companies, we can better protect ourselves from their influence and make informed political decisions.