The Dangers of Clickbait and the SECI Model of Knowledge Creation

The Dangers of Clickbait and the SECI Model of Knowledge Creation

In today's digital age, we are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of content that seems to have a fleeting existence. Whether it's an enticing headline, a catchy thumbnail, or a viral video, we are constantly exposed to content that is designed to capture our attention in the moment, only to be forgotten soon after. It is within this context that we must consider the dangers of clickbait and the implications it has on our society.

Arthur Schopenhauer, a renowned philosopher, articulated the two types of writers - those who write for the subject's sake and those who write for writing's sake. The former are driven by a genuine desire to communicate thoughts or experiences that they find valuable, while the latter are motivated by monetary gain. Schopenhauer argues that writing for money is the ruin of literature, as it compromises the integrity of the author and the quality of the content. This raises an important question - what are the intentions and motivations behind the content that we consume?

In the realm of digital media, where clicks and views are the currency of success, it is no surprise that many content creators are driven by financial incentives. Their key performance indicators (KPIs) determine their motivation and intention, often leading to a proliferation of content that lacks timeless value. The problem arises when these bad writers monopolize the time and attention of the audience, leaving little room for the consumption of more profound and meaningful content. As Schopenhauer astutely observes, people tend to gravitate towards what is newest rather than what is best, perpetuating a cycle of shallow ideas and intellectual stagnation.

However, amidst the deluge of clickbait and superficial content, there is hope. The SECI model of knowledge creation offers insights into how tacit and explicit knowledge can be transformed into organizational knowledge. This model emphasizes the importance of externalization, combination, internalization, and socialization in the process of knowledge creation.

Externalization refers to the act of articulating and publishing tacit knowledge, making it explicit and accessible to others. This is crucial in facilitating communication and collaboration within organizations. By developing factors that embed combined tacit knowledge, we create a foundation for the exchange of ideas and the generation of new knowledge.

Combination, on the other hand, involves organizing and integrating different types of explicit knowledge. This can be seen in the construction of prototypes or the synthesis of diverse perspectives. By combining explicit knowledge, we enhance our understanding and create opportunities for innovation and problem-solving.

Internalization occurs when individuals receive and apply explicit knowledge, making it a part of their own knowledge base. This process is often facilitated through hands-on learning and practical experience. When individuals internalize explicit knowledge, it becomes an asset not only to themselves but also to the organization as a whole.

Finally, socialization is the process of sharing tacit knowledge among individuals. This can be seen as a form of knowledge discovery, as individuals learn from one another and expand their understanding through social interactions. By engaging in meaningful conversations and collaborative efforts, we foster a culture of continuous learning and growth.

Incorporating these insights from the SECI model into our approach to consuming and creating content can help mitigate the dangers of clickbait. By seeking out and supporting content creators who prioritize the subject's sake over financial gain, we can encourage the production of valuable and timeless works. Additionally, we can actively engage in the process of knowledge creation by externalizing our own tacit knowledge, combining different sources of explicit knowledge, internalizing new knowledge through practical application, and socializing with others to expand our intellectual horizons.

In conclusion, the dangers of clickbait are not to be underestimated. They threaten to drown out meaningful content and perpetuate intellectual stagnation. However, by embracing the principles of the SECI model and actively seeking out valuable and timeless works, we can navigate the digital landscape with discernment and contribute to the creation of knowledge that transcends the fleeting nature of clickbait. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to consider:

• 1. Be conscious of your content consumption habits. Choose quality over quantity and prioritize works that offer timeless value rather than fleeting entertainment.

• 2. Support content creators who prioritize the subject's sake and demonstrate a genuine passion for their craft. By engaging with their work, you contribute to the preservation of meaningful content in a sea of clickbait.

• 3. Actively engage in the process of knowledge creation by externalizing your own tacit knowledge, combining diverse sources of explicit knowledge, internalizing new knowledge through practical application, and socializing with others to expand your intellectual horizons.

By incorporating these practices into our digital lives, we can reclaim our attention and contribute to the creation of a more thoughtful and enriching online environment.