"Part of attention is sometimes conflict, provocation. We're lonely and depressed, getting more polarized every day. We're endlessly doomscrolling, bombarded by rage bait. And it's because our experience on the internet is being overrun by these attention-based algorithms controlled by tech companies that don't have our best interests at heart. I'm tired of what social media is doing to our brains. It has to be possible to have a better experience on the internet, grounded in creativity and human connection, a more human algorithm."
"Here's the kicker: I'm a C.E.O. of one of these freaking tech companies. But I'm determined to not be part of the problem. Let me explain. I co-founded a company called Patreon, a platform where creators can share their work, connect with their fans and build their businesses. And on top of being a C.E.O., I've been making music on the internet for 17 years now."
Attention-based algorithms prioritize engagement and attention as infrastructure, producing conflict, provocation, loneliness, depression, polarization, doomscrolling, and rage bait. These algorithms are controlled by tech companies that optimize for ad revenue rather than human well-being. A different internet experience grounded in creativity, human connection, and a more humane algorithm is presented as necessary. Patreon operates as a platform that enables creators to share work, connect with fans, and monetize content. Earlier internet norms allowed followers to see posts chronologically and build meaningful communities. That chronological relationship has been replaced by feed algorithms that surface whatever maximizes screen time.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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