this post was submitted on 24 Feb 2024
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So what you're saying is you miss the algorithm.
Having an algorithm is something some people like. It isn’t as universally negative as some seem to think. The issue is when the algorithm is prioritizing engagement over enjoyment
You nailed it there, it's similar to targeted ads for me. I actually do like targeted ads because they might show me stuff I'm actually interested in or new products/new media in my wheelhouse. It's just that a lot of people can't help themselves and buy what they see on ads, I usually just use it as a jumping off point to do research into whatever product. I prefer seeing ads for games than for diapers.
When the volume of potentially relevant and interesting content is enormous to the point that a standard human brain can't possibly hope to filter through all of it in reasonable time, the algorithm makes plenty of sense.
I just want a fair algorithm that represents what is best for me and us.
No, what I miss are tools for searching for communities that actually work. While technically those use algorithms to find communities, but I don't miss "the algorithm".
It makes curation a lot less difficult, but I also think making it the sole authority is reckless and bad design. I should be able to live my life without its sense of 'discovery' and Mastodon is in the right with their approach.