Are we the baddies? (geohot.github.io)

Article summary

The article discusses how companies like Hinge, Uber, and Booking use algorithms and psychological manipulation to extract more money from customers. The author argues that this is a problem with modern capitalism, where companies prioritize profit over people's well-being. The article also touches on the idea that people are complicit in this system and that it may take a significant event, such as a financial collapse, for things to change. The author expresses frustration with the current state of affairs and the ways in which companies use data and psychology to manipulate customers.

Main themes

• algorithmic manipulation
• modern capitalism
• psychological exploitation
• regulation vs. market solutions
• customer complicity
• technological transparency

What commenters say

• Some people argue that paying a premium to jump the queue is a status symbol and that it's not a problem if everyone is willing to pay it.
• Others believe that the use of algorithms to manipulate customers is a major issue and that it's not okay to use psychology to extract more money from people.
• There is disagreement over whether Uber is more expensive than traditional taxis, with some people saying it's cheaper and others saying it's more expensive.
• Some commenters think that the solution to these problems is to use technology to create more transparency and accountability, while others believe that regulation is needed to prevent companies from taking advantage of customers.
• A few people argue that the issue is not with the companies themselves, but with the fact that customers are willing to pay for premium services and that the market should dictate the prices.
• Others believe that the problem is more complex and that it requires a fundamental change in the way companies operate and prioritize profits over people's well-being.