Author: Todd Lohenry

The internet is filled with bright, shiny objects. Many of them end up here! A @toddlohenry project. Be shiny!!!

How the Engagement Algorithm Destroys Civil Society

Digital natives have every advantage in affluence and opportunity, yet no generation has been more conspicuously unhappy.

The article “How the Engagement Algorithm Destroys Civil Society” discusses the paradox of digital natives who, despite having unprecedented access to wealth and opportunities, are experiencing significant unhappiness. The author argues that the algorithms used by social media platforms prioritize engagement over well-being, resulting in a society where meaningful connections are undermined, and individuals feel more isolated. The article highlights the detrimental effects of this engagement-driven approach, suggesting that it not only harms individuals but also weakens the fabric of civil society by promoting divisiveness and superficial interactions. Overall, it calls for a reevaluation of how social media impacts our social structures and individual mental health.

Source: How the Engagement Algorithm Destroys Civil Society

Recommended reading:

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Why Your Best Purchase Is One You Can’t Return

Experiences don’t just bring joy—they shape identity and deepen connections. Science explains why what you buy can change how you feel about yourself and others.

The article “Why Your Best Purchase Is One You Can’t Return” discusses how experiences, rather than material possessions, significantly influence our sense of identity and interpersonal connections. It emphasizes that the joy derived from experiences adds meaning to our lives and fosters deeper relationships. The author highlights scientific explanations behind the emotional benefits of experiential spending, suggesting that such purchases can enhance our self-perception and strengthen our bonds with others, contrasting with the fleeting satisfaction provided by physical items.

Source: Why Your Best Purchase Is One You Can’t Return

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Good bye, Val Kilmer

Val Kilmer, a remarkable actor whose talent transcended the screen, left an indelible mark on Hollywood and in the hearts of fans worldwide. With his captivating performances in iconic films such as Top Gun, The Doors, and Tombstone, he brought to life complex characters with charisma and depth.

Beyond his roles, Kilmer was known for his dedication to his craft and his unique approach to embodying every character. His portrayal of Jim Morrison showcased not only his acting prowess but also his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

Val’s journey has been as inspiring as his performances. He faced personal challenges with courage and resilience, reminding us all of the power of determination and strength in the face of adversity.

As we celebrate Val Kilmer’s legacy, we honor a true artist whose contributions to film and theater will forever resonate. His spirit and artistry will continue to inspire generations to come. Thank you, Val, for sharing your remarkable gift with the world.

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This Is What a Digital Coup Looks Like

If this is the status quo, how then do we we who aspire to mindfulness respond?

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy: The 2025 60 Minutes Interview

9 children killed by a Russian missile. How long will this continue?

Bonus…

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AI Beat the Turing Test by Being a Better Human

GPT-4.5 fooled most humans in a recent Turing Test, (perhaps) showing we may prefer AI’s fake empathy to real humanity.

Source: AI Beat the Turing Test by Being a Better Human

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Why Facts Can’t Break Through the Mind’s Firewall

The mind resists facts, but we can bypass our mental barriers.

Source: Why Facts Can’t Break Through the Mind’s Firewall

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Why Real Love Requires More Than Just a Spark

Stop chasing chemistry. Start building real love—the kind that goes beyond the spark and creates a deep, lasting bond based on trust, effort, and commitment.

Source: Why Real Love Requires More Than Just a Spark

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Love Is (Not) All You Need

Nothing important takes care of itself. Relationships are no different.

Source: Love Is (Not) All You Need

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The Attraction and Potential Hazards of AI Lovers

Trends suggest that AI lovers aren’t just novel but here to stay, and are poised to impact humanity in a variety of ways.

Source: The Attraction and Potential Hazards of AI Lovers

 

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Why People Believe Things They Know Aren’t True

Why we rewrite history, ignore facts, and build stories that protect how we feel right now, even when we know they aren’t true.

Source: Why People Believe Things They Know Aren’t True

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The Godfather Of AI Has A Message

What is the response to the millions of jobs that will disappear on account of AI? h/t Brian Clark

And what happens then?

Continue reading “The Godfather Of AI Has A Message” →
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Why So Many of Our Habits Are a Source of Suffering

The key to peace of mind is to stop tying our happiness to fulfilling our desires and, instead, shift our attention to being present right now for our life as it is.

Source: Why So Many of Our Habits Are a Source of Suffering

 

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Is AI a Treasure Chest or Pandora’s Box?

Isaac Asimov famously expressed concern that society gathers knowledge faster than wisdom, highlighting a potential imbalance in our pursuit of technological advancement.

AI presents us with opportunities and opens the door to disaster. To unlock its benefits while minimizing the risks, we must guide its development with a sense of agency.

Source: Is AI a Treasure Chest or Pandora’s Box?

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I Should Have Seen This Coming

David Brooks writes “When I joined the conservative movement in the 1980s, there were two types of people: those who cared earnestly about ideas, and those who wanted only to shock the left. The reactionary fringe has won.”

Example?

Russell Vought, Donald Trump’s budget director, sounds like he walked straight out of 1984. “When they wake up in the morning, we want them to not want to go to work, because they are increasingly viewed as the villains,” he said of federal workers, speaking at an event in 2023. “We want to put them in trauma.”

This is not America. This is something different…

Source: I Should Have Seen This Coming

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Reason

Reason is no match for pain.

Anonymous
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The “Why” of Happiness Is Complex; the “How” Is Easy

Random acts of kindness have specific effects on the brain that enable us to share the joy of others.

Source: The “Why” of Happiness Is Complex; the “How” Is Easy

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What Phubbing Does to Your Relationships

“So you are finally seated at the table, ordered your food, and suddenly your phone buzzes. You got an email or someone mentioned you on Twitter, and you scroll through your phone, blissfully unaware of the world around you, including the person sitting across the table. You’ve just phubbed someone.

Phubbing, or phone snubbing, is a distinctly modern dilemma. It happens often, but for partners who phub, it can be a bigger problem than you might expect. Researchers at Baylor University looked at the phenomenon of phubbing and found that it can cause conflict in relationships and even lead to feelings of depression.”

Source: What Phubbing Does to Your Relationships – ATTN:

phubbing

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The Silent Erosion of Our Critical Thinking Skills

Overreliance on artificial intelligence may diminish critical thinking skills.

Source: The Silent Erosion of Our Critical Thinking Skills

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When Your Grown Child Treats You Like the Enemy

You’ve given your child everything—so why are they lashing out with criticism, blame, and resentment? Learn how to respond with grace instead of regret.

Source: When Your Grown Child Treats You Like the Enemy

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How to Stay Up in a Down World

Emotional and spiritual vibrations refer to the energetic frequencies emitted by our thoughts, emotions, and spiritual states.

Source: How to Stay Up in a Down World

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