Question from a reader:
I keep seeing short videos from the Infinity Castle arc on YouTube, and even just scrolling for a couple of seconds, they come into view. Sometimes, I end up watching them unintentionally, and it’s really bothering me since they keep popping up. Is there any way to avoid short videos I don’t want to see?

How to
Avoid Short Videos You Don’t Want to See on YouTube

Hello! I’m a man in my early 30s, born in California and raised in Osaka. Recently, I’ve been encountering short videos from the Infinity Castle arc on YouTube, and I can understand how frustrating it is when they come into view even though you don’t want to see them. Especially when you unintentionally catch a glimpse of them while swiping, it can be hard to ignore. So today, I’d like to discuss ways to avoid such videos, including some legal perspectives.

What is YouTube’s Algorithm?

First, it’s important to understand how YouTube’s short videos are displayed in your feed. YouTube uses an algorithm that recommends content based on viewers’ interests and viewing history. This means that the videos you’ve watched in the past influence what will be shown to you in the future. Personally, I enjoy comedy and watch various stand-up acts, so related videos frequently appear. However, I don’t necessarily like all the content. What should you do if you want to distance yourself from certain genres or works?

How to Block Unwanted Content

YouTube offers several ways to avoid videos you don’t want to see. Let’s look at the specific steps.

1. Mark Videos as “Not Interested”

If you come across a video that you don’t want to see, you can mark it as “Not Interested.” By using this feature, you provide feedback to YouTube’s algorithm that you do not want to see that video. Specifically, click the three-dot menu (⋮) in the upper right corner of the video thumbnail and select “Not Interested.” By doing this repeatedly, the unwanted content will gradually become less likely to appear in your feed.

2. Use the Block Feature

If videos from a specific channel keep appearing and you really don’t want to see them, you can block that channel. This is an effective way to completely avoid content from certain creators. To block a channel, click on the channel name, go to the channel page, and select “Block Channel.” This will prevent videos from that channel from appearing in your feed.

3. Send Feedback

Feedback from viewers is also important for YouTube. Since your viewing history and trends are reflected, regularly sending feedback can help improve the algorithm. For example, if you feel there are too many videos from the “Infinity Castle arc” or a specific genre, send that feedback.

Legal Perspectives

Now, let’s incorporate a bit of legal perspective. As a company, YouTube must respect user privacy. Under data protection laws, users have the right to know how their data is being used, and you can check your data from your account settings. Moreover, feeling that you don’t want to see certain content is part of your freedom of choice. Taking action against content that makes you uncomfortable is a legally recognized right. Implementing measures to filter out unwanted content is also important for maintaining the platform’s integrity.

Psychological Approaches

Seeing unwanted videos can also cause psychological stress. Our brains consume a lot of energy processing visual information, so unnecessary information can distract us. In such cases, it might be good to reconsider your usual viewing habits. For example, instead of watching at specific times or places, creating a relaxing environment might help reduce stress. Additionally, watching other entertainment content (like movies or dramas) can provide a temporary break from YouTube.

Conclusion

Having short videos from the Infinity Castle arc come into view might sometimes feel contrary to your free will as a viewer. However, YouTube provides several means to avoid such content. By utilizing the “Not Interested” and block features, you can create an environment where you can enjoy content that better suits you. Also, from a legal perspective, it’s important to understand and exercise your rights. Helping the platform evolve in a better direction through your feedback can be seen as one of the roles of a user. If this blog has been even a little helpful, I’m glad. I sincerely hope you can enjoy a comfortable YouTube experience!