Filter bubbles are auto-intensifying.

· Bits and Bobs 3/24/25
  • Filter bubbles are auto-intensifying.
    • Even if it starts out with a small random bias, that compounds as you focus more and more on signals that fit within what you already think, which is tied to what you've already been exposed to.
    • How much do the companies control the algorithm and how much does the algorithm just fundamentally emerge out of the structure?
    • Engagement is the emergent thing to optimize for in media; in infinite content and finite viewing time, the zero sum thing is about more watch time.
      • If you don't optimize for it, then you are outcompeted by the entity who does.
    • Our ranking signals all overfit, at a compounding rate.

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