How Social Media Algorithms Shape Emotions and AI Ethics: Inside This Week’s Podcast

This Week’s Podcast: Algorithms, AI Ethics, and Emotional Manipulation

In this week’s episode of How Algorithms Make Us Feel Bad and Weird, host Sam examines how social media algorithms influence our emotions—from engagement rings and wedding dresses to babies—while diving into the phenomenon of getting lost in the #Weddingtok trend. The discussion highlights the psychological impact of algorithm-driven content curation on major life milestones.

Following Sam’s segment, Emanuel dissects a satirical yet functional AI tool that repurposes open-source software without violating copyright laws. The tool’s design raises questions about innovation, ethics, and the boundaries of intellectual property in the AI era.

Bonus Content for Subscribers: AI Spending Trends and Tokenmaxxing

For Supporter-level subscribers, Jason delves into the world of "tokenmaxxing"—a strategy where startups prioritize spending on AI while minimizing investment in human resources. The segment explores the motivations behind this trend and its implications for the future of work and technology.

How to Listen and Access Exclusive Content

Tune in to the weekly podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. To unlock bonus content, including the full episode and extended video version, become a paid subscriber. Subscribers receive an email from Transistor, our podcast host, containing:

• A link to the subscribers-only version of the episode
• Instructions to add the subscribers feed to your preferred podcast app
• An unlisted YouTube link for the extended video version

The subscribers-only content is also available in the show notes of your podcast player.

Episode Highlights

I Almost Lost My Mind in the Bridal Algorithm

Sam’s segment focuses on the emotional rollercoaster of navigating algorithm-driven content around weddings and engagements. The discussion underscores how platforms curate content to maximize engagement, often at the expense of users’ mental well-being.

This AI Tool Rips Off Open Source Software Without Violating Copyright

Emanuel’s breakdown of the satirical AI tool examines the nuances of repurposing open-source software. The segment explores the ethical and legal implications of such innovations, as well as their potential impact on the tech industry.