Skip Navigation

Resisting algorithms contributes to simple living

I think by resisting algorithms, e.g., moving to decentralized platforms, browsing the "small web", avoiding large social media, and being intentional with one's internet usage, one isn't fed as much ragebait and negativity. I really think this should contribute to one's peace of mind and in turn, make ones life a bit simpler. Often I see the discussions revolve around disconnecting from the web partly or completely, which might be good as well if one feels the want to, but which I don't think is a necessary component of simple living.

2 comments
  • I think just being more intentional about what you are engaging with is a really big thing, especially focusing on deeper engagement rather than the shallow skimming of repetitive content that most platforms encourage.

    I've been disentangling myself from Google as much as I can recently and one of the things I've noticed is that their AI suggestions for everything were taking up more of my attention than I realised - every text message or email I replied to used to pop up with "suggestions" about what I should reply and I really like not having that any more.

    The bit I find myself very conflicted about is Facebook. I hate their algorithms, I hate the constant stream of AI generated and adverstising rubbish, I hate their AI "questions" on every post. But there are a few niche groups on there that don't exist anywhere else, and that do allow me to have deeper discussions on specific topics and connect with local people. I'd love to get rid of Facebook entirely, but doing so would also mean I have to lose that deeper content that is valuable to me.