The Internet and Mind Control

Eli Pariser's speech on the use of internet filter bubbles has shown that the internet has changed in the way it choose which information to show us in our search results based on our previous searches. Our previous search results, links we've clicked on, where we're located, all factor into what information we're shown. As a result, our beliefs and opinions, are being reaffirmed and we're not receiving any contrasting or uncomfortable information that challenge us. As written in the article, Google acts as a "curator", using an algorithm to determine which pages are top-ranked in our searches, telling us what is important; there is no longer one standard Google anymore.

On the other side, the article written by Clive Thompson shows us that it may not be bad to rely on close friends to give us new information, based on their study of recruiters.They found that those with close ties received more novel information and produced higher revenue for their firm. He argues that because close friends know you better, they know how to frame things for you and to get your attention, already knowing what kind of information will be new to you.