The Internet's Philosophical Insights: A New Perspective on Life
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Chapter 1: The Wolf and the Philosopher
Let’s delve into the fascinating interplay between humans, wolves, and the implications of animal training on our understanding of algorithms.
This journey begins with a wolf named Brenin, who lived alongside philosopher Mark Rowlands from 1990 to 2000. Their experiences are chronicled in the book The Philosopher and the Wolf: Lessons from the Wild on Love, Death, and Happiness. Due to Brenin's tendency to destroy furniture when left alone, Rowlands took him everywhere.
To ensure Brenin's proper behavior, Rowlands implemented elements of William Koehler’s canine training methods. It was during this training that a profound realization struck him.
Section 1.1: Understanding the Differences Between Wolves and Dogs
Through his training, Rowlands recognized a stark contrast between the intelligence of wolves and that of dogs. Wolves develop in an environment where danger is ever-present, learning to navigate obstacles like fallen trees. This harsh reality cultivates a practical intelligence in them.
Conversely, dogs thrive in a more sheltered existence, one filled with conveniences such as hearing their owner's voice through a phone or seeing them on a screen. This nurturing environment fosters a relationship where dogs leverage humans to fulfill their needs. For instance, a dog will bark when hungry or tug at your pants when it wants to play.
Rowlands aptly states, “To dogs, we are useful information processing devices. We, humans, are part of the dog’s enlarged brain.”
Subsection 1.1.1: Parallels Between Humans and Dogs
Today’s humans also navigate a world that feels almost magical, wherein technology fulfills many of our desires. Instead of barking for food, we simply order through UberEats. For a ride, we summon an Uber rather than tugging on someone’s pants. When we seek companionship, we swipe on Tinder.
Algorithms now play a pivotal role in our lives, recommending everything from movies to potential partners, mirroring how dogs utilize humans for assistance. In essence, we are to the internet's algorithms what dogs are to us: reliant and conditioned.
Rowlands’ insights extend to the idea that educating a wolf involves convincing it that it inhabits a dog’s magical world. Previously, learning was a mechanical process, akin to how wolves survive in the wild. Now, tutorials and algorithms shape our understanding, training us in ways we might not recognize.
Chapter 2: The Role of Algorithms in Our Lives
The first video, "The Problems with Internet (and YouTube) Philosophy," delves into how these digital platforms influence our thoughts and actions.
In the second video, "How philosophy can save your life | Jules Evans | TEDxBreda," the discussion revolves around the transformative power of philosophical thinking in modern life.
As Rowlands points out, algorithms act like a punishment collar, tightening when we stray from their prescribed paths. For instance, if you create content that doesn't align with YouTube's preferences, you risk being shadowbanned. Conversely, content that attracts advertiser interest can go viral.
Faced with this reality, creators often find themselves producing what the algorithm desires rather than pursuing their authentic interests. This shift means that the algorithm shapes our interactions and experiences more significantly than we may realize.
In the words of Nietzsche, “Those who cannot discipline themselves end up finding someone to do it for them.”
Final Thoughts
Use the internet wisely: don't become a mere servant to algorithms; strive to embody the spirit of a wolf. Are you ready to take charge of your life?
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