The Problem is the Algorithms!

The Problem is the Algorithms!

In today's digital landscape, the invisible hand guiding our content, connections, and even our children's perceptions is not human—it's algorithmic. It's becoming increasingly clear that our marketing strategies, social interactions, and the very metrics by which we measure success are being dictated by algorithms designed to prioritize engagement over substance and human engagement.

I've stumbled across courses designed and taught by the younger generation that explicitly state the importance of keeping participants glued to the content for as long as possible. This pursuit of engagement feeds directly into the cycle where content is not crafted for its intrinsic value but for its potential to capture attention endlessly.

The drive to remain "top of mind" has led to a cycle where content is crafted not for its intrinsic value but for its potential to capture attention. This endless quest for visibility feeds into and exploits our basic human need for recognition, creating an environment where the number of likes or shares dictates worth. The result? A generation fixed on screens, aspiring to influencer status in a digital realm where visibility is mistaken for success and where false truths, mental fatigue, and isolation are rampant.

The implications of this algorithm-driven reality extend far beyond our current social fabric; they shape the worldview of our children. What values are we instilling in them when success is measured by online popularity? Our responsibility is to raise critical thinkers and not followers.

The challenge we face is monumental, yet not insurmountable. It demands a collective response. We must prioritize and promote content of genuine value, engaging with platforms and tools that reward depth over virality and encourage others to do the same. Supporting policies that demand accountability from tech giants is crucial, pushing for the development of algorithms that prioritize the public good, with mechanisms in place to mitigate bias and promote ethical use. Equipping the next generation with the skills to engage with digital content critically teaches them to value real connections and experiences over digital accolades. Encouraging a shift from metrics-based validation to real-world impact and meaningful interactions means success should be measured by the quality of our contributions to society, not by our ability to game the system.

As professionals, parents, and members of the digital community, we are at a crossroads. Will we continue down a path dictated by algorithms, where engagement trumps ethics and superficiality overshadows substance? Or will we take a stand for a future where technology enhances our humanity rather than diminishes it?

This is not an attack on marketing or the media. As a child of the 1970s- 80s and having my first child in 2021, I am concerned about my industry and where it is going.

What are your thoughts?

George Garrastegui, Jr

Process Curious Educator: City Tech, CUNY / Works in Process Podcast host / Keynote Speaker / Process & Diversity Champion: 100 Roses from Concrete, AIGA DEI

11 个月

"success should be measured by the quality of our contributions to society, not by our ability to game the system" YESSSSS... thank you

Kristina Cara Hernandez-Frayco

Change Agent towards living an Authentic Positive Christian Way of Life - Self, Family, Work, Community | Strategic HR Leader | Organizational Assessment | Content Curator | Wife and Mother | Pastoral Care Leader |

11 个月

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. The digital era, just like any progress in the world, can break or make the future of the children today. There's an interesting discussion on "burnout" in a podcast I subscribe to, which also tackles thoughts on digital minimalism and intention behind the use of social media apps. Much to learn and think about, listen here - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1bhoBZAfIBUoXDZj0TZK3H?si=_DQexWSmQyyomjT3PYd4eA My key take away is values formation will reflect on how we choose - anything in life. While the world will continue to evolve and more digitization will progress, our sense of humanity is formed by the values we acquire from, aspire to be like and hope to inspire in others.

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Thomas Favilla

Emmy Nominated Editor at THE DAILY SHOW

11 个月

This shit keeps me up at night constantly as Lilo gets older and older.

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Carl Javier

Writer, Creative, AI Ethicist, Certified Human Centered Coach, Startup Entrepreneur

11 个月

This piece is great in articulating taking a stand on the work we put out into the world. Honestly I’ve been thinking about the moment we stopped labeling things as some kind of expressions (essays, articles, video essays, even blog entries) and just started calling everything “content” and how that immediately devalued or at the very least flattened everything. Lots to think about here. I don’t have kids but I think a lot about what values and aspirations people will have in the coming years.

Will Colón

Co-Founder and Creative @ Open Pixel Studios | Animation Expert

11 个月

If you really want to stay up at night, check out The AI Dilema by Tristan Harris, Aza Raskin and the Center for Humane Technology on YT. They really break it down in a digestible way that makes it semi-clear about what can happen in the very near future.

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