Exploring Racial Bias on Online Dating Apps
When Apryl Williams opened a Tinder account in 2013, she began wondering about the algorithms used by dating apps, how they selected potential matches, and what role race may play in the system. After nearly 10 years of research, Apryl Williams, who studies race, gender, and popular culture, has written a book about her findings, “Not My Type: Automating Sexual Racism in Online Dating.”
At RSVP, we take a human approach to matchmaking. We were interested to find out more about the role online dating plays in promoting prejudice and stereotypes.
Williams' research delves into the complex world of dating app algorithms, revealing how these systems are designed to predict attraction based on superficial factors, often reinforcing harmful stereotypes. The data is clear: black women are undervalued, while white men are disproportionately favoured.
The algorithms, while claiming to match users based on compatibility, are essentially curating racially consistent dating pools. This not only reflects but exacerbates existing societal prejudices.
Williams’ work is a step towards understanding the impact of technology on social relationships. Her research highlights the urgent need for dating platforms to prioritise inclusivity and equity. This includes implementing robust measures to protect users from harassment, providing transparent data access, and developing algorithms that challenge rather than reinforce biases.
Williams' research encourages us to question the underlying assumptions of online dating platforms, and to advocate for a more human approach to matchmaking.
If you’re interested in exploring an alternative to online dating, then speak to our dating professionals at RSVP. We’re a personal matchmaking agency that pairs like minded individuals based on compatibility. We have your best interests at heart, so our matchmakers employ a hands-on approach, without any algorithmic restraints. We look forward to hearing from you!
