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 conflating correlation with causation. Yes, algorithms show us content we engage with, but that's not radicalization, that's preference. People sought out extreme views *before* YouTube existed, they just gathered in basements instead of online. The real question you're dodging: if algorithms radicalize, why do billions use them daily without becoming extremists? You need to prove algorithms *create* radicalization, not merely reflect existing appetites. Until you do, you're just blaming the mirror for what it shows. So here's my challenge: name one person radicalized purely by an algorithm, with zero prior susceptibility or environmental factors.