Brett Frischmann, a renowned scholar at the intersection of technology and behavior change, joins Evan Selinger, an expert on technology's societal impacts. They discuss how technology influences both individual behavior and societal norms, questioning whether we control technology or vice versa. The conversation covers the ethical dimensions of self-help and behavior modification, examining tools designed to foster habit change, while also raising concerns about autonomy and privacy. Their insights weave through philosophy's role in understanding behavior in the digital age.
Behavior change is fundamentally about cultivating new habits, emphasizing the challenge of sustaining positive patterns over time.
The historical philosophical exploration of control, particularly in the context of autonomy, provides essential insights into modern behavior change dynamics.
Technology's influence on behavior is dual-edged, as it can empower personal goals while simultaneously manipulating users towards external objectives.
Deep dives
Understanding Behavior Change
Behavior change is primarily about establishing new habits and patterns of behavior rather than occasional actions. While many people have good and bad habits, the challenge lies in consistently adopting healthier behaviors. For example, someone may enjoy running but struggle to sustain that habit over time. True behavior change requires overcoming this difficulty and transforming fleeting experiences into lasting practices.
Philosophical Foundations of Control
Historically, philosophy has examined the nature of control, with Aristotle suggesting that virtues are formed through habit formation. Contemporary discussions have shifted to assessing behavior change through the lens of medical and psychological contexts, especially concerning healthy lifestyles. This framework often deals with intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation, examining how engaging with technology can enhance or hinder self-control. As a result, understanding these philosophical roots offers insight into how society approaches the concepts of autonomy and control.
Technology's Dual Role
Technology plays a complex role in behavior change, serving both to support personal goals and to exert external influence. For instance, fitness apps can provide motivation and tracking capabilities, enhancing individual control over health, while also pushing users toward specific behaviors for corporate gain. Conversely, the mechanics of social media, including likes and notifications, often manipulate users into behaviors that serve the interests of tech companies rather than individual needs. This raises ethical concerns about where personal autonomy ends and external manipulation begins.
The Ethics of Control
The ethical implications of control are multidimensional, with self-control often viewed positively while control over others is contentious. From a liberal perspective, individuals should maintain autonomy, but technologies that shape behavior can blur these lines. This duality raises questions about responsibility and the moral landscape of who or what influences behavior. The nuances of agency, especially in the realm of technology, provoke ongoing debates regarding ethical governance and the implications for personal responsibility.
Self-Control versus External Control
Discussions around self-control and external control often highlight the tension between using technology for personal empowerment and the risks of being controlled by it. Users may find that while they can track and enhance their exercise habits through apps, they simultaneously battle with compulsive behaviors prompted by social media. The contrast between being the subject and object of control complicates how individuals perceive their engagement with technology. Reflecting on personal experiences with technology ensures a deeper understanding of its impact on autonomy and the broader ethical questions surrounding behavior change.
In this episode, John and Sven talk about the role that technology can play in changing our behaviour. In doing so, they note the long and troubled history of philosophy and self-help. They also ponder whether we can use technology to control our lives or whether technology controls us.
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