The Polarization Profit

Imagine for a moment that the political tension you feel every time you log onto social media isn't an accident. It is actually a highly refined business model. We are told that we are a nation hopelessly divided, but there is a massive economic engine running in the background that actually needs that divide to stay profitable. Think of the algorithms running our favorite platforms; they are designed to prioritize content that triggers strong emotional reactions, like anger or outrage. Why? Because engagement is the currency of the modern internet. If you are angry, you keep scrolling, and if you keep scrolling, you are exposed to more advertisements. It turns out that conflict is extremely effective at keeping our attention fixed on the screen, creating a cycle where division is not just a side effect, but the product itself. 

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