The Bunker
Under my thumb – How the LIKE button hacked our brains
Apr 15, 2025
Joining the conversation is Bob Goodson, a Silicon Valley veteran and co-author of 'Like: The Button That Changed The World'. He explores the surprising origins and evolution of the Like button, detailing how it's transformed our social interactions into a dopamine-driven addiction. Goodson discusses the ethical implications of social media, the rapid pace of technological innovation, and the future of mind-monitoring tech. With his rich insights, he paints a picture of how this simple button shapes our behaviors and society today.
42:12
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Quick takeaways
- The Like button, originally designed to enhance user interaction, has evolved into a tool that fosters addiction through a dopamine feedback loop.
- The historical context of the thumbs-up gesture reveals how cultural symbols can change meaning over time, influencing modern social media behavior.
Deep dives
The Impact of the Like Button
The like button has dramatically influenced social media interaction, being clicked around 7 billion times daily. Originating from a desire to streamline user engagement, it transformed how people connect and communicate online. This feature has redefined content creation, making reactions as effortless as a single click while promoting the idea of user-generated content. The like button exemplifies how minor interactions can lead to significant behavioral changes and foster community involvement.
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