Learn to Ignore Recommendations
You can either surrender to the algorithms or claim your individuality
We are encouraged to conform to what everyone else is doing. There is safety in numbers. Even if we fail, we can simply shrug it off and blame it on others. Whenever we accept recommendations, we risk following the herd.
In "Excellent Sheep," William Deresiewicz critiques the American elite education system and its effects on students. He argues that the pressure to succeed and conform in prestigious institutions leads to a lack of intellectual curiosity, self-reflection, and genuine passion.
Three ways in which higher education creates “excellent sheep”
There are many reasons why we have stopped producing creative thinkers.
Emphasis on Extrinsic Motivation: The system prioritizes achievements like high GPAs, standardized test scores, and impressive extracurricular activities. This focus on external validation encourages students to chase achievements for the sake of getting into a prestigious college rather than pursuing genuine intellectual curiosity or personal growth. They become "excellent sheep" by dutifully jumping through hoops, but they may lack intrinsic motivation and a sense of purpose.
Culture of Conformity: Elite institutions foster a competitive environment where students constantly compare themselves to their high-achieving peers. This leads to a fear of failure and a pressure to conform to a narrow definition of success. Students are discouraged from taking risks, exploring unconventional paths, or challenging the status quo. This reinforces the "sheep" mentality by discouraging independent thought and promoting herd behavior.
Lack of Intellectual Exploration: The pressure to excel in predetermined academic tracks often leaves little room for genuine intellectual exploration. Students may focus on getting good grades in required courses rather than pursuing their own passions or engaging in deep critical thinking. Deresiewicz argues that this results in a lack of intellectual curiosity and a narrow worldview, further contributing to the "excellent sheep" phenomenon.
Essentially, Deresiewicz believes that the elite education system's emphasis on external validation, conformity, and a narrow definition of success stifles creativity, critical thinking, and personal growth, leading to the production of "excellent sheep"
Success creates the algorithm
The Beatles broke the algorithm of the music industry in the 1960s by defying established norms and experimenting with new sounds, songwriting techniques, and artistic expression. Their innovative approach to music, coupled with their charismatic personalities and savvy marketing, allowed them to cultivate a massive and devoted fanbase that propelled them to massive levels of fame and success.
The paradox is that the artist has to establish a signature style by recreating a certain visible personal brand. As soon as the pattern is recognisable, an algorithm can be created. Then the algorithm takes over. Anything that does not fit the pattern is sifted out.
Algorithms love to keep you comfortable, feeding you content that aligns with your existing beliefs. This creates an echo chamber, limiting your exposure to diverse perspectives and stifling intellectual growth. Remember that time you kept getting recommended the same type of music, even though you secretly yearned for something different? More of the same is what algorithms can offer.
Five ways to ignore recommendations
Go Genre-Hopping: Venture beyond your usual playlists. Dip your toes into classical, jazz, folk, or even K-pop. You might be surprised by what you discover.
Embrace the Unexpected: Attend concerts and festivals featuring diverse artists. Let live music ignite your passion for new sounds.
Ask for Recommendations: Tap into the wisdom of friends, family, and colleagues. Their suggestions can open doors to exciting musical experiences.
Explore Global Sounds: Travel the world through music. Discover the rhythms of Latin America, the melodies of India, or the beats of Africa.
Rediscover the Past: Delve into music history. Explore the classics, revisit forgotten gems, and appreciate the evolution of sound.
Recommendations are killing us
Embrace the pause, discover yourself within. Hear your own rhythm, discern your unique beat. Dare to diverge, explore uncharted ways. Develop resilience, a shield against the world. Claim your individuality. Crush the algorithm.
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