This captures something really unsettling about optimization systems. The Zoo's progression from making harm visible to hiding it actually mirrors how alot of recommendation algorithms work today, just taken to its logical extreme. What stuck with me was that moment where visibility of suffering leads to callousness ratherthan compassion. I've noticed similar patterns in activist burnout online, where constant exposure to injustice seems to erode empathy instead of building it.
To be honest, I’ve noticed that callousness build in myself — think it happened to a lot of people during Covid when information-seeking felt pressing in a very specific way, too. It’s a hard problem to grapple with.
(Also so glad the Zoo’s progression felt logical; recommendation algorithms were a big inspo when thinking this series through.)
This piece really made me think, particulary about trying to find those tiny differences in what seems like a perfect copy. It makes you wonder, if your doppelganger appeared, would they also constantly try to optimize their Pilates form?
This captures something really unsettling about optimization systems. The Zoo's progression from making harm visible to hiding it actually mirrors how alot of recommendation algorithms work today, just taken to its logical extreme. What stuck with me was that moment where visibility of suffering leads to callousness ratherthan compassion. I've noticed similar patterns in activist burnout online, where constant exposure to injustice seems to erode empathy instead of building it.
To be honest, I’ve noticed that callousness build in myself — think it happened to a lot of people during Covid when information-seeking felt pressing in a very specific way, too. It’s a hard problem to grapple with.
(Also so glad the Zoo’s progression felt logical; recommendation algorithms were a big inspo when thinking this series through.)
Thanks so much for reading!
This piece really made me think, particulary about trying to find those tiny differences in what seems like a perfect copy. It makes you wonder, if your doppelganger appeared, would they also constantly try to optimize their Pilates form?
lol! Yeah I always wonder what would really distinguish *this* Spencer from a “perfect” copy. The romantic in me thinks it’d be something profound.
The cynic in me thinks it’d something extraordinarily banal.
This whole series is very strong science fiction.
Thanks so much! It’s been really awesome watching/reading your reactions to the whole series. Appreciate the kind words and insightful thoughts!