Advanced Algorithms: A Free Course from Harvard University

Mindless on Instagram: "algorithms are designed to maximize engagement by learning what captures our attention and serving us increasingly provocative content. These systems track every click, pause, and scroll, using machine learning to identify patterns in what keeps us on the platform longest. The algorithms quickly discover that extreme, emotionally charged content—whether outrageous, enraging, or shocking—triggers stronger reactions than moderate material. This creates a feedback loop where