First, make me care (gwern.net)

Article summary

The article discusses the importance of capturing the reader's attention in nonfiction writing, particularly in the introduction. It argues that many nonfiction introductions fail to engage the reader due to excessive background information, and instead suggests starting with a hook that provokes curiosity. The article uses the example of writing about the Venetian empire to illustrate this point, showing how a more engaging introduction can be crafted by highlighting an interesting anomaly or question. By doing so, the reader is more likely to become invested in the topic and continue reading.

Main themes

• writing techniques
• reader engagement
• nonfiction writing
• attention span
• social media impact

What commenters say

• The constant stream of information on platforms like TikTok can lead to a decrease in attention span and an increase in dopamine-driven behavior.
• Some argue that rapid-fire media consumption can create symptoms similar to ADHD in neurotypical individuals, even if it does not cause the genetic condition itself.
• Others disagree, stating that there is no evidence to support the claim that rapid-form media creates attention deficit problems, and that ADHD is a mostly genetic condition.
• The format of social media platforms like TikTok can be seen as a brute-force attack on human psychology, using algorithms to keep users engaged and coming back for more.
• Some people find that using platforms like TikTok for learning or discovery can be effective, but others argue that the short-form format is not conducive to meaningful learning or retention.
• The juxtaposition of emotionally engaging content with advertisements or other unrelated material can be detrimental to the human mind, leading to desensitization and passive consumption.
• The idea that social media is a distributed hacking attempt on the human mind is a compelling one, with algorithms and content designed to exploit psychological vulnerabilities and keep users engaged.