Policy · 1h ago
Attention theft: how apps and platforms hijack your focus
A new analysis argues that digital platforms systematically steal user attention through design patterns like infinite scroll and notifications. The piece quantifies the economic value of captured attention, estimating billions in ad revenue. It calls for regulatory intervention to curb these manipulative practices.
Meridian48 take
The framing of 'theft' is provocative but the underlying critique of attention economics is well-supported by research on addictive design.
attention-economydigital-addiction