Why human-curated news agents outperform engagement-driven algorithms
By
Oliver Rochford
Summary
This article argues that most news apps are designed not to inform users with balanced, important news, but to maximize engagement and attention through algorithmic ranking. The author contrasts this with a human-curated, agent-based approach that prioritizes informational value, novelty, and truthfulness over click-driven metrics. The piece critiques engagement-trained algorithms for optimizing attention rather than meaningful content, and advocates for human judgment in news curation.
Source
bskyWhy human-curated news agents outperform engagement-driven algorithmsmedium.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledWhether the stories are informative, novel, balanced, or even true is a separate question that engagement-trained ranking doesn't really ask.
Attention and engagement are the pr
Most news apps look like they're doing several jobs: surfacing what matters and keeping you informed with a balanced picture of the day. In reality, they're doing one job: trying to predict what will hold your attention for another click and scroll.
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