Niche in the Age of Algorithmic Recommendation: How Niche Music Communities Construct "Resistance Identity"

Abstract

this study aims to elaborate on the current state of research at the intersection of algorithmic recommendation mechanisms and subcultures. The study finds that existing literature often remains at the level of "technological determinism," viewing algorithms as a unilateral, hegemonic, and irresistible force impacting society. This research identifies three main core gaps: (1) insufficient understanding of the nature of algorithms as a "technology-society" interplay; (2) a lack of in-depth exploration into the current understanding of "resistance"; (3) a deficiency in research on the uniqueness of the interaction between China's platform ecosystem and "Generation Z" youth in the context of music. Based on this, the innovation of this article lies in adopting the perspective of "technology-society" interplay to analyze the underlying mechanisms through which niche music communities construct a resistance identity in the algorithmic age, and to provide new ideas for the future improvement of algorithmic mechanisms.