Are We the Baddies?

10 months ago

Critique of modern digital platforms (Hinge, Uber) using AI and psychology to manipulate users for profit.
Concerns about middlemen in everyday transactions (dating, rides, payments) exploiting users with advanced algorithms.
Market self-correction is doubted due to companies' ability to adjust manipulation tactics via AI dashboards.
The competitive business landscape forces engagement maximization, likened to a 'red queen’s race' feeding social capital to 'Moloch'.
Collective action problems prevent opting out, with democracy seen as ineffective against algorithmic control.
Speculation on whether extreme events (financial collapse, World War 3, mass starvation) could reset societal norms.
Criticism of modern capitalism as 'wireheading', with advertising, price discrimination, and mass manipulation deemed unethical.
Pessimistic view on learning from manipulation until most 'customers are fed to Moloch'.

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