this post was submitted on 18 Aug 2025
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Privacy
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Occam's Razor: coincidence is the most likely explanation. Most of us aren't as unique as we think we are. It doesn't take very long for a keen observer (or algorithm) to profile our behavior based on direct surveillance.
Think of it this way: if you were the algorithm and were looking at a detailed account of every second of time you spent on the platform, and also had the same accounting for every other user... what inferences and connections might you, the algorithm, be able to make about you, the person?
It's a feature, not a bug, for platforms to recommend relevant content. It's also intrinsic for you to engage with the platform authentically, engaging with it in a way that aligns with your interests, preferences, and demeanor. Relevant content drives engagement. Engagement drives revenue. Irrelevant content does the opposite and serves to benefit no one involved. The popular platforms blew up exactly because they are so good at knowing what you want to see even before you do.
In short: no amount of tech can save us from ourselves.