Ep. 372: Decoding TikTok’s Algorithm

In this episode of Deep Questions, Cal Newport analyzes TikTok's algorithm and its implications for society. He explains the technical architecture of TikTok's recommendation system, highlighting that it's not a simple algorithm but a complex, data-driven system that lacks human values. Newport argues that algorithmic curation, unlike human curation, can lead to negative consequences, such as promoting harmful content and exploiting dark impulses. He suggests that individuals should prioritize a "deep life" and human-curated sources of information to resist the negative influences of such algorithms. He also answers listener questions and comments on recent articles, reinforcing his concerns about the impact of algorithmic curation on society and individual well-being.