Attention is all you have

The "Tetris effect" demonstrates how focusing on a single idea can shape one's thoughts. This phenomenon can be beneficial, such as when learning new skills or ideas, but it also occurs when we let others dictate our digital experience. Our attention is often unintentionally directed by recommendation algorithms, rather than our own choices.

For instance, if you enjoy cooking and art streams, YouTube suggests videos related to food and art, but it may also recommend content about the stock market bubble, global warming, and the war in Iran. Similarly, when listening to music, a Spotify playlist may fill the gaps between real songs with AI-generated content to avoid paying royalties.

Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit may seem to offer useful information, but they often include opinions from strangers, potentially influenced by AI or Russian trolls. This trend began when recommendation algorithms were introduced, and it's now common for users to rely on a single app for entertainment. In the past, users had to decide what to do on their computers, with various bookmarks directing them to specific websites with particular interests.

While the internet once had a mix of content, the current digital landscape is heavily influenced by corporate interests. However, this curated internet still exists, albeit buried beneath the surface. With a conscious effort, users can rediscover blogs, RSS feeds, and tutorials, steering clear of the endless scroll. The key to this change is maintaining focus and attention on meaningful content.