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Mourning Google (tbray.org)

548 points by cdme · 944 days ago · 471 comments on HN

Article summary

The author reflects on their 14-year tenure at Google, which they joined in 2010, and how the company has changed over time. They express nostalgia for the old Google and criticize the current state of the company, citing the influence of 'psychotic pricks' who prioritize business over innovation. The author also discusses their personal experiences with Google products and alternatives. The article touches on the decline of Google's search capabilities and the rise of alternatives.

Main themes

  • Google's decline
  • Nostalgia for old Google
  • Alternative search engines
  • AI-powered tools
  • Corporatization of the internet
  • Privacy and surveillance
  • Commercialization of technology
  • Evaluation of information truthfulness
  • Impact of aging on perspective

What commenters say

  • Some commenters share the author's nostalgia for the old Google and agree that the company has changed for the worse.
  • Others argue that the author's perspective is tainted by their age and nostalgia, and that Google was never as idealistic as they remember.
  • A few commenters defend Google's business model and argue that it has enabled the company to thrive and provide useful services.
  • Some commenters express concerns about Google's integration with government agencies and its potential impact on privacy and surveillance.
  • A few commenters discuss the potential of alternative search engines and AI-powered tools, and the risks of them being 'enshitified' by commercial interests.
  • Some commenters disagree about the extent to which Google has contributed to the corporatization of the internet, with some arguing that it has had a net positive effect and others arguing that it has enabled the proliferation of low-quality content.
  • A few commenters mention the importance of evaluating the truthfulness of information, particularly when using AI-powered tools.
  • Some commenters speculate about the potential for AI-powered tools to be used for nefarious purposes, such as spreading disinformation or manipulating public opinion.