The Illusion of Self: How Algorithms Engineer Conformity

This analysis argues that perceived digital uniqueness is an illusion.
Key concepts covered:
- Homo Mimeticus: The human subject as an imitative being driven by shared emotional states (mimetic pathos), not pure reason.
- Algorithmic Conformity: How digital platforms exploit our inherent permeability for profit.
- Hypermimesis: The massive, contagious spread of imitation accelerated by technology.
- Civic Decay: The link between digital echo chambers, the erosion of social capital (Tocqueville, Putnam), and the shift from local to global drama.
- Breakdown of Discourse: How this environment fuels untruths (e.g. fragility, emotional reasoning), undermining critical thought.
The central claim is that algorithmic systems subvert individuality by weaponizing our mimetic nature, fundamentally reshaping minds and society.