Hi Tristan, thanks for this valuable article! You paint the clearest picture I’ve ever read on how we’re manipulated into interacting with technology in ways we don’t often intend and that are, at times, not in our best interest.

However, I’m not convinced your approach is the solution.

Our minds are hijacked in many more ways than by technology. We are at the mercy of an outdated operating system, which, during our hunter-gatherer days was really useful. In today’s world, it’s less useful and sometimes detrimental to living a fulfilling life.

This is why I don’t think sheltering us from our basic impulses is the answer. This is ultimately a losing battle.

It would be more useful and practical to help us become aware when our impulses are being used against us. Mindfulness training can help us achieve this awareness.

Taught thoughtfully, this approach can shield us from the distraction of technology and, even more importantly, lead us toward a world in which companies don’t try to take advantage of their customers in the first place.