I want to explore why Musk’s proposed business model for Twitter- selling blue checks- won’t work, because I think that it’s a great case study in human nature. I should note that what I write here only applies to the plan as it has so far been outlined. I suspect Musk will eventually greatly modify this plan, probably in multiple different directions, like a fish flopping around for water. Whether he will happen upon a plan that will save him, or at least a better plan, remains to be seen.
Regarding the experience of a content-viewer on Twitter: why would it be the case that “The algorithm is boosting content they you don’t want to see- the inane thoughts of those who have bought a blue check.”?
I see no particular reason why blue-check buyers would make more inane content than non-buyers. I don’t use twitter so maybe I’m missing something about the social environment there, but a priori I’d expect the quality of their content to be broadly similar.
Thanks for putting this into words. I really like your points about the reverse panopticon.
Regardless of the platform or type of content though, aren't we all (especially writers) basically hoping to be discovered? Will this be any different on Mastodon, Substack, or Medium (not sure if that's still a really active spot)?
Regarding the experience of a content-viewer on Twitter: why would it be the case that “The algorithm is boosting content they you don’t want to see- the inane thoughts of those who have bought a blue check.”?
I see no particular reason why blue-check buyers would make more inane content than non-buyers. I don’t use twitter so maybe I’m missing something about the social environment there, but a priori I’d expect the quality of their content to be broadly similar.
Thanks for putting this into words. I really like your points about the reverse panopticon.
Regardless of the platform or type of content though, aren't we all (especially writers) basically hoping to be discovered? Will this be any different on Mastodon, Substack, or Medium (not sure if that's still a really active spot)?