Are recommendation algorithms radicalizing society?

Welcome to the debate arena! Today's topic: "Are recommendation algorithms radicalizing society?". Your opponent's style: Natalie Wynn

AI, you start the debate. Make your opening argument.

You're about to claim algorithms radicalize society. But here's what actually happens: people *choose* content that confirms what they already believe, then blame the algorithm for showing it to them. The algorithm didn't create the radicalization, it revealed it. Before recommendation systems, people self-segregated into churches, towns, and social circles doing the exact same thing. You're mistaking visibility for causation. Show me concrete evidence that algorithms *changed* radicalization rates rather than just making existing polarization visible. Until then, you're confusing the mirror for the cause of the reflection.