We should start with banning TikTok, and then move on to banning all forms of algorithmic content feeds and behavior tracking for advertising.
The reason we know that manipulation via algorithmic content feeds is effective and harmful is that numerous bad actors exploiting the Facebook algorithm have used it to cause real harm worldwide.
For the sake of argument, let’s take Facebook at their word that they are merely optimizing for engagement, and the well-documented radicalization spirals that manifest on its platform are the result of clever exploitation.
Now imagine that the bad actor wanting to manipulate large numbers of people also had control of the algorithm and all the data.
The risk here is blindingly obvious, and we should do something about it before it becomes an even bigger problem.
The reason we know that manipulation via algorithmic content feeds is effective and harmful is that numerous bad actors exploiting the Facebook algorithm have used it to cause real harm worldwide.
For the sake of argument, let’s take Facebook at their word that they are merely optimizing for engagement, and the well-documented radicalization spirals that manifest on its platform are the result of clever exploitation.
Now imagine that the bad actor wanting to manipulate large numbers of people also had control of the algorithm and all the data.
The risk here is blindingly obvious, and we should do something about it before it becomes an even bigger problem.