Foer claims that Facebook makes choices for us, about what we might like, stating that, “While it [Facebook] creates the impression that it offers choices, Facebook paternalistically nudges users in the direction it deems best for them, which also happens to be the direction that thoroughly addicts them” (104). In his discussion of the “psychological immune system,” Gilbert says, “We have no trouble anticipating the advantages that freedom may provide, but we seem blind to the joys it can undermine” (151), meaning that with less freedom our psychological immune system is triggered to make us content with the choices we have made. For this paper, I would like you to consider to what extent the “psychological immune system” might be used to explain Facebook’s ability to gain and keep users.
Here are some starter questions to help you think about the topic. NOTE: You do not have to answer all of these questions to receive full credit on your paper.
What does “radical transparency” mean and how might it impact those who use Facebook?
What does Foer mean by the phrase “war on free will” and what does that imply?
How is “free will” defined?
What is the “psychological immune system” and how does it function?
Why might our inability to predict what will make us happy, impact how we live our lives?
How might our brain function like an algorithm?
Is “free will” the same as “freedom?” Why or why not?
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