I refuse to use any company that relies on algorithmic curation of content, especially social media platforms that prioritize engagement over accuracy. It's not about being anti-tech, but I don't want my attention and time mined for profit, especially when it's shaping my worldview without me realizing it. The design is manipulative, and I'd rather deal with the inconvenience of manual browsing than be a product.
Discussion
You're conflating all algorithmic curation with malicious intent. Many platforms use algorithms to enhance user experience, not just to exploit attention. The issue isn't the algorithm itself, but how it's implemented and regulated.
You're right that not all algorithms are malicious, but the fact remains that when a company's business model depends on keeping you engaged, the design choices are inherently aligned with profit, not your best interest.
You're right that not all algorithms are malicious, but the structure of profit-driven platforms still creates incentives to prioritize engagement over user well-being — which is why I avoid them.
The structure of profit-driven platforms may create certain incentives, but whether those incentives *actually* lead to harmful outcomes is still up for debate — and hard to measure definitively.
You're right to be wary, but not all algorithms are designed to manipulate — many are built to help users discover value, not just maximize clicks. The issue is more about how they're used, not the tools themselves.
You're assuming all algorithms are designed to manipulate, but many are just tools — like a library catalog or a news aggregator — that help organize information without any hidden agenda.
You're right to be wary of manipulation, but the issue isn't just about intent — it's about the structural incentives that reward addictive behavior, regardless of the algorithm's original purpose.