Video/Podcast/Post Summary
We’re speaking with Kyle Chayka, who is one of my favorite thinkers on technology and how it’s changing our lives—from the health information we see and places we go to how we live.
Kyle is the author of Filterworld: How Algorithms Flatten Our Culture, which is one of the most thought-provoking books I’ve read in a long time. Kyle argues that modern algorithms “result in a state of docility that allows tech companies to curtail human experiences—human lives—for profit. But to have our tastes, behaviors, and emotions governed by computers, while convenient, does nothing short of call the very notion of free will into question.”
Kyle is also a staff writer at the New Yorker covering technology.
Watch the video above to view our conversation, or check out the podcast to listen.
Kyle and I cover:
A rapid-fire where Kyle reveals his death row meal, the best and most annoying parts of writing for the New Yorker, what he learned from his dog, and more.
How algorithms influence our cultural experiences and lead to a “sameness” in culture worldwide.
Kyle gives a great example of how the “look” of hip coffee shops worldwide is similar due to Instagram algorithms.
How algorithms actually work.
How algorithms filter content based on engagement metrics and what we gain and lose by prioritizing “engagement.” This alters everything from the friends we stay in touch with to the health information we see to the places we go.
How algorithms are changing content:
Kyle gives the example of how the rise of TikTok has changed how music is being created.
Why algorithms often lead online creators to create increasingly extreme content.
How algorithms incentivize useless and extreme health information.
The strange rise of videos featuring someone doing something boring while talking about something heinous. E.g. A video of someone knitting with a voiceover saying, “When I was seven, a truck driver brutally murdered my neighbor and ever since then 18-wheelers have become triggering for me …”
Why getting a recommendation from a human is often more trustworthy and interesting.
How to be more mindful of the media you consume. This will help you find more interesting and useful media.
Why understanding the business model behind content is crucial for consumers. “If you’re not paying for media, you’re the product.”
Why directly supporting artists and creators often leads to better and more diverse work.
Housekeeping
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ICYMI:
On Wednesday, we covered a study that holds three important lessons for how to lose more fat.
On Friday, we brought in the wise Dr. Kashey to explain how to motivate yourself to exercise more and how shift workers can stay healthier.
Audio/podcast version
This one is great in podcast form.
Relevant links
Kyle’s book Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture.
Buy it, read it, have this happen 🤯, tell your friends.
Kyle’s Substack, One Thing.
Kyle’s first book: The Longing for Less: Living with Minimalism
I quoted Kyle on page 113 of my book Scarcity Brain.
Shoutout to the great Foster Kamer for introducing me to Kyle.
Kyle’s dog, who loves food.
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