Engineered Addictions

A founder's reflection on why attempts to fix social media inevitably fail due to venture capital funding models that prioritize growth over user wellbeing. The piece explores how platforms like BeReal, Instagram, and Twitter started with pure intentions but became addictive engagement machines once they needed to scale. The author argues that individual solutions like digital detoxes can't solve systematic problems created by behavioral psychology teams and algorithmic manipulation. Instead, fundamental changes are needed including alternative funding models, regulated algorithms, and metrics focused on user wellbeing rather than engagement.