Here is
this week’s “For Your Consideration” video. Like last week, it is another
excellent TED Talk, though this one deals with another topic. Whether you
realize it or not, Google (along with just about every other major internet
entity) tailors your experience of the web through the use of algorithms. I had
known this for some time, but I never realized the extent to which it was being
used by other companies such as Facebook, Yahoo, etc.
While this
might not seem like such a problem, it has undoubtedly contributed to the
radical political polarization we have seen here in the United States over the
last decade or so. This also affects us in other potentially detrimental ways
such as inhibiting the open-mindedness that one must cultivate as a
philosopher. To be able to ask important questions is contingent upon being
exposed to wide and diverse views, even those diametrically opposed to your own
personal convictions. In order to dialogue with others—especially those with
whom we disagree about our opinions—we must have the access to their
perspective, to their worldview. But if we are being limited in that exposure,
does it not stifle us and the wisdom we would potentially accrue?
How can we
work around these “filter bubbles”? How can we effectively seek out information
that broadens the horizons of our inquiry? How can we help the algorithms
better serve our needs while still allowing them to function properly and well?
Why is this crucial for progress in a representative democracy such as ours,
especially one that has been plagued with dysfunction and ideological gridlock over
the last decade?
As always,
please post your thoughts, comments, and questions below.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWow. That was some comment, Professor Chute. I think what stands out to me the most are two salient points made by your entry: 1) that our local levels of filtering can be as (if not more) damaging than the filter bubbles created by the algorithms on the web; 2) when used thoughtfully, the internet can provide diversity and enlarge our perspectives/worldviews.
DeleteWith regard to the first point, I think it is safe to say that your conclusion is generally correct, yet undoubtedly influenced by the local level to which you refer. Being in a suburban/borderline rural area certainly promotes an undeniable cultural homogeneity that few people feel comfortable challenging. Those who are the dissenters are usually cast as misfits (pun intended) and labeled as such in an effort to dehumanize their experiences and/or views. I think if you were to live in a large urban setting for a long enough period of time, you may amend your conclusion to square with your experiences in said context (although you will undoubtedly find those who are "petty and uninformed about most issues outside their small bubble of humanity").
When it comes to the second point, you clearly illustrate that no one who is aware of the tailored internet experience will forever be trapped within it. Kudos for seeking out information and experiences beyond the confines of your customized web world. I find it difficult some times to think of new sites to peruse, and I can't help but wonder how much I am ensnared. But at least I recognize it, I am mindful of it. And part of being wise is simply being aware. We may miss much while we are asleep (literally and metaphorically), but for those who are fully awake there is little that escapes scrutiny followed by careful, deliberate thought. You are definitely in the latter group, Professor!
Thanks again for posting. Please continue to do so and spread the word about what we are doing here.