Comments on: What the Algorithm Did to Our Words—and Why It Matters

By: Cat

Cat — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 17:03:21 +0000

Such an interesting post!
I just watched a video about the euphemism treadmill the other day, so this caught my eye (coming from the Weekend Traffic Jam). I get annoyed by the algorithm a lot and try to fight it by actively searching for content instead of just consuming what the algorithm wants me to see, but it’s hard sometimes, especially if you have rage bait not just in posts themselves, but also in comments to posts which are not even rage bait themselves. One thing I especially hate is petfluencers trying to make you feel guilty for not following their accounts by adding sad emojis.

By: Lisa R. Howeler

Lisa R. Howeler — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 18:25:51 +0000

This right here: “The result? The algorithm is training us to overreact, to see ourselves as more polarized from other people than we really are. It creates a tendency in us to think that the extreme is normal, when it’s not.”

That is exactly what is happening and it is sad to see.

thank you for joining up with the Weekend Traffic Jam Reboot.

Also, if you ever have any book-related posts, be sure to link up with my monthly linkup A Good Book and A Cup of Tea on my blog.

https://lisahoweler.com/a-good-book-cup-of-tea-monthly-link-party/

By: Donna

Donna — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 17:02:22 +0000

Thank you for the recommendations Lisa. I will definitely look for both books.

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 21:59:42 +0000

I think you must have a very young brain! Just think of all the wonderful stimulating books you read and the mental stimulation you put your brain cells through. It’s like vigorous exercises. You are causing many brain “ripples” to use your word! LOL. Really I do admire how you dig in, learning new stuff and daring to try new things. Such a great role model for all of us!

By: Dianna

Dianna — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 18:52:06 +0000

Well, this was quite an interesting post, Lisa. I learned a lot and I also realized that I’ve been guilty of “digital rubbernecking”. The algorithms certainly know what gets my attention! Now I can be smarter about those catchy titles and just avoid them.

Our son and I had an interesting conversation along similar lines the other evening, dealing with AI.

By: Martha J Orlando

Martha J Orlando — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 14:30:07 +0000

Just another reason I’m glad I’m not on any social media at all. I was aware that language is being manipulated and people are censored if they dare to write the “wrong” thing. What happened to free speech? Who is behind the algorithms and what is their agenda? Maybe, I’ll just have to read this book.
Blessings, Lisa!