Big Think's 2017 Top Ten: #10. Tristan Harris on Addiction, Hacking, and Corporations | Big Think

TL;DR

Technology companies use persuasive techniques exploiting human vulnerabilities to capture attention.

Transcript

One thing we don't talk about is that—it's sort of hard to talk about this—our minds have theses kind of back doors. There's kind of—if you're human and you wake up and you open your eyes there is a certain set of dimensions to your experience that can be manipulated. When I was a kid I was a magician, and you learn all about these limits, that sho... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤯 Human minds have vulnerabilities that technology companies exploit for attention.
• 👤 Persuasive techniques like social approval manipulate users' behavior.
• 🎰 Slot machine mechanics in technology products drive addiction and engagement.
• 😒 Ethical considerations arise from manipulating human vulnerabilities in technology use.
• 👤 Variable schedule rewards create addictive behavior in users.
• 👤 The design of technology products influences user engagement.
• 🎰 Constantly checking social media or emails becomes a form of "gambling" with slot machine mechanics.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do technology companies exploit human vulnerabilities?

Technology companies exploit human vulnerabilities by using persuasive techniques like social approval and variable schedule rewards to capture and maintain users' attention. These techniques manipulate users' minds and make technology addictive.

Q: Why are slot machine mechanics used in technology products?

Slot machine mechanics are used in technology products because they provide variable schedule rewards that are highly addictive. Every interaction with the product, like checking social media or emails, becomes a "gamble" that keeps users engaged.

Q: Is the manipulation of human vulnerabilities ethical?

The ethical implications of manipulating human vulnerabilities in technology use are subjective. While it may feel good to receive social approval or rewards, it raises concerns about honest and fair practices by technology companies in controlling users' behavior.

Q: How do slot machine mechanics influence user behavior?

Slot machine mechanics create a sense of unpredictability and excitement in technology use, similar to gambling in a casino. Users are constantly seeking rewards, leading to increased engagement and addiction to technology products.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Human minds have vulnerabilities that can be manipulated by technology.

• Persuasive techniques like social approval and variable schedule rewards make technology addictive.

• Technology companies use slot machine mechanics to keep users hooked.