Social Media’s Engineered Addiction

Social platforms often start with authentic intentions but become corrupted by venture funding and growth pressures.

Economic incentives drive platforms to prioritize user growth and engagement over genuine connection and wellbeing.

Algorithms are engineered for engagement using tactics similar to gambling, exploiting psychological vulnerabilities for profit.

Individual strategies like digital detoxes and screen time limits can’t overcome systematic manipulation by major platforms.

Systemic solutions are needed, including alternative funding models, regulated algorithms, structural separation, and new success metrics focused on user wellbeing.

Genuine human connection occurs outside monetizable interactions, in third spaces that can’t be optimized for engagement.

Meaningful change requires rewriting the economic rules that make addiction profitable and prevent platforms from prioritizing authentic relationships.