The Algorithmic Scroll & Us!
As I write this article, and take a break from the screen scrolling I’ve been part of since the early hours of the day, I realize that my phone’s been charging and at least 10 apps have been accessed over the past 24 hours; some due to compulsion while the others to supplement my convenience.
And that doom-scrolling activity, which I felt I was in total control of; surprise, surprise! I am a victim of the engaging algorithm that’s made detaching from my device impossible! (Thank God for lunchtime!)
Doomsday is near: This is a creation of the movies and some beliefs where people look at the end and turn a blind eye to the process. However, when we talk about doom-scrolling, we’re mostly part of the problem and seldom find solutions to mitigate the issue!
With podcasts and webinars about the persistent ills of doom-scrolling, I think there’s a realization that we have let go of ourselves and are governed by algorithms and the changes brought about by tech companies. This is a price we pay for instant gratification and hyper convenience that we seek! We know the process that attracts us to it, yet can’t seem to tweak the process to give ourselves a break from using our index fingers and thumbs!
Doom and despair around us? Not really, if you ask me because there are some successful times when this scrolling mania can be paused while we pick up a book, indulge in work and use the phone only for important things. However, this is a discipline that we as individuals must bring out through trial and error methods before we calendarize and make it a good habit!
There’s no gloom but more blooming opportunities around us when we strengthen our conscience and use technology to our advantage. To those who struggle with doom-scrolling, take time out to watch the sky and admire the Tyndall effect! You will be mesmerized by the outer world and its connection with you!
Experience, Explore, and Endeavour to Succeed! And perhaps later, blog about it, for others to lap up and learn about the finer things in life!
The scroll of your life must read: In control and totally committed to creating amazing things and being amazed with life!
Tech, people, processes and good intent; let’s unite for a better future!
By Abhishek Haridasan
