• rufus@discuss.tchncs.de
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    5 months ago

    I think echo chambers is what the current form of the internet has provided us with. Especially the recommendation algorithms that make it so convenient. And it’s a downwards-spiral in itself.

    Also politics in the USA seems to have that baked in. Two parties, strong opinions about everything and you need to take sides. Everything needs to be simple truths and about people, less about complicated topics and diversified perspectives. You’re either supporting something or the enemy.

    Also in the present time some people struggle with the choices available to them. Some want guidance, simple truths and something to identify themselves with. It’s a part of being human to look for a way to define your own identity. And to want a group to belong to.

    So we end up in a situation where everything is pushing towards it. People longing for recognition and validation, tribalism being part of our psychology. Companies pushing for it with their platforms and algorithms. And politicians recognizing and exploiting it to their advantage.

    And I rarely see politicians talk about tackling actual issues… Saying it’ll take some effort but we need to address xyz, it’s the way forward. They rather make it emotional, make a show out of it. Other things would be widely unpopular in the US.