Antisemitism Turns Profitable on Social Media, Experts Warn
MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Antisemitism, a scourge that has long plagued societies worldwide, has found a new and troubling foothold in the digital age. Recent investigations reveal that social media platforms, through their engagement-driven algorithms and monetization strategies, are inadvertently turning antisemitic content into a lucrative business model. This transformation of hate into profit is raising alarms among experts and community leaders alike.
Historically, antisemitic ideas circulated in isolated pamphlets or fringe gatherings, but today, they thrive in the vast, interconnected world of social media. Platforms reward content that provokes outrage and engagement, regardless of its truth or morality. This dynamic means that antisemitic posts, which often shock or enrage, receive amplified visibility and, crucially, financial incentives.
Aviva Klompas, a researcher at Boundless Israel, highlights the shift in how antisemitism operates in the digital economy. “What once was marginalized is now incentivized,” she said, pointing to the troubling example of Miami Beach, where videos of influencers singing Nazi slogans and performing salutes in public venues went viral. These individuals appeared to revel in the attention, fully aware that their provocative behavior would generate widespread outrage and, by extension, engagement.
The underlying mechanism is the architecture of social media platforms themselves. Algorithms prioritize content that keeps users engaged longer, boosting ad revenue for the platforms and earnings for content creators. Unfortunately, hateful content often performs well under these criteria. According to the Federal Communications Commission, this engagement-driven model can inadvertently promote divisive and harmful content.
Experts warn that this monetization of hate not only normalizes antisemitism but also endangers vulnerable populations, including Jewish youth who face increasing harassment online. The Anti-Defamation League has documented a surge in antisemitic incidents correlating with the rise of online hate speech, emphasizing the urgent need for platforms to reassess their policies.
Calls for reform are growing louder. Advocates urge social media companies to dismantle financial incentives that reward hate speech rather than focusing solely on content moderation. This approach aligns with recommendations from the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, which stresses the importance of addressing systemic issues that allow hate to flourish online.
While some platforms have introduced measures to curb hate speech, critics argue that these efforts fall short of tackling the root economic drivers. The challenge remains balancing free expression with preventing the monetization of harmful ideologies.
As antisemitism adapts to the digital landscape, experts emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies involving policymakers, tech companies, and civil society. Without decisive action, the business of hate may continue to grow unchecked, with profound consequences for social cohesion and public safety.
For further information on combating online hate and protecting communities, resources are available from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI’s Hate Crimes Program.
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