Google fixed an algorithm that claimed Jews run Hollywood, which is a familiar antisemitic refrain. Photo: rakerace.com

JNS.org – Google fixed issue in which the Internet search engine answered “Jews” when users posed the question, “Who runs Hollywood?”

The notion that Jews run Hollywood is a familiar antisemitic refrain. Google’s direct answers service is based on an algorithm that draws answers from various websites and provides simple responses to questions. But an algorithm has no ability to recognize hurtful or racist content, hence the antisemitic result.

Users were quick to point out the gaffe, prompting Google to change its algorithm. A Google spokesperson told The Guardian that the direct answer was being removed and explained that a website propagating the misguided theory that Jews run Hollywood had been linked to by many others, giving it perceived “authority” under the company’s page-rank algorithm.

The spokesperson said, “We assure you that the views expressed by such sites are not in any way endorsed by Google.”