A World Without Algorithms: Embracing News the Old-Fashioned Way
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Chapter 1: The Case for Algorithm-Free News
In today's media landscape, I find a refreshing alternative in receiving my news without the influence of algorithms. I maintain subscriptions to both the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal in physical form.
Reading print newspapers provides a vastly superior experience. Each article is curated by seasoned journalists applying their professional expertise, rather than a digital entity that solely seeks to deliver content tailored to my presumed preferences. This approach often exposes me to stories I wouldn't typically seek out online, but which become unexpectedly relevant.
Now, let’s reflect on the early days of social media.
Do you recall when your Facebook feed consisted primarily of updates from your genuine friends? You would see their life events and musings, arranged chronologically, allowing for a real connection.
However, now my feed is filled with ads, and many real-life friends’ posts remain unseen. For reasons unknown, Facebook has determined that I am uninterested in their updates. This is one of the reasons I appreciate Medium; even though I pay a subscription fee, I am free from advertisements.
Frequently, the algorithm misjudges my interests. I have a friend, a newspaper columnist, whose posts hardly ever appear on my feed, despite my long-standing friendship with him. My husband, who has a much looser connection with this friend, sees his posts regularly.
Despite our shared political beliefs and mutual interests, Facebook seems to think I wouldn’t want to read his columns. Instead, it ensures that my husband, who doesn’t write about politics, receives all the relevant updates.
Does an Algorithm Run Your Life?
This video delves into how algorithms shape our everyday experiences and the implications of their influence on our lives.
Algorithms operate without any moral compass. Platforms like YouTube can propagate misleading conspiracy theories, leading many to believe in unfounded claims, such as the idea that Bill Gates is implanting trackers via Covid vaccines. This misinformation has real-world consequences, including vaccine hesitancy, which can lead to further spread of illness.
While I am not a technology expert, I recognize that algorithms can serve beneficial purposes, such as managing traffic signals or power grids. However, my knowledge on this topic is limited, and I am fine with their use in these areas.
The traditional methods of communication—like newspapers and billboards—are designed to reach a broad audience, rather than targeting specific individuals.
Section 1.1: The Political Divide
Algorithms also complicate our political discourse. In print media, political advertisements aim to resonate with the general public. In contrast, digital ads can be customized for niche audiences, which often leads to fragmented messaging.
For instance, a candidate might craft ads appealing to veterans, young families, or seniors, without any of these groups understanding the full scope of the candidate's promises.
This is akin to a charming individual telling different stories to various people, leaving each one unaware of the other narratives being spun.
Wouldn't we benefit from hearing uniform political messages instead of being segmented into echo chambers? Moreover, the role of algorithms in marketing is concerning. I used to identify products I wanted without external suggestions; now, algorithms dictate my choices.
Section 1.2: The Illusion of Unity
Algorithms do not unite; they create divisions. With an already individualistic culture, algorithms further narrow our perspectives. Consuming news through these filters often leads to a lack of awareness about issues that do not align with our personal beliefs.
For instance, if you disregard international news, you may miss how events like the Ukraine conflict affect us all. Understanding these connections is crucial, especially as global factors contribute to domestic issues like inflation and rising energy costs.
The uninformed public, influenced by algorithms, risks making detrimental decisions, leading to serious consequences.
As a result, many individuals rely on algorithms to curate their news, significantly impacting our collective understanding of the world.
Algorithms Are Replacing Your Brain
This video addresses the pervasive influence of algorithms on our thoughts and decisions, highlighting their effects on society.
I enjoy patterns in life, but I prefer them to be organic rather than dictated by algorithms.
Interestingly, Facebook Marketplace has proven adept at matching me with antique furniture that matches my taste, making it hard to resist browsing online rather than exploring local shops.
Reflecting on a past experience, I recall a time when a tech professional was upgrading our newsroom’s systems. The transition was challenging, coinciding with my new role as editor. In a moment of frustration, I suggested we halt the upgrade altogether.
"Let's just stick to the technology of about 1999," I quipped, only half-joking. If we could pause technological advancements for a moment, I believe we could all take a collective breath and catch up.
About Michelle Teheux
I am a copywriter, proofreader, and editor based in central Illinois. Connect with me on Twitter or LinkedIn.
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