Critical Media Studies #106: Bernard Steigler - Elements of Pharmacology, pt. 2
Nov 14, 2025
Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on the implications of digital technology as a 'pharmakon.' Explore critiques of social media, particularly Facebook, and its impact on authentic relationships. Unpack the dangers of passive consumption shaped by hidden algorithms. Discover the importance of learning to engage with technology thoughtfully. Reflect on the internet's dual potential and the toxicity of digital spaces today. The conversation wraps on hopeful practices like walking and daydreaming to reclaim our attention.
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Automation Threatens Friendship
- Facebook automates friendship through algorithmic "grammatization," risking proletarianized, impoverished social relations.
- Stiegler worries this prevents genuine recognition and disclosure central to philia and community.
Hidden Algorithms Foster Passivity
- Stiegler sees the internet's benefit tied to connecting people, but hidden algorithms make users passive and less critical.
- This 'artificial stupidity' emerges because choices get outsourced to opaque technical functions.
Actively Counter Algorithmic Selection
- Don't accept algorithmic outputs as complete; actively cast a wider net when researching to avoid narrow slices of information.
- Learn how tools work and deliberately counter their selection biases to gain a broader picture.
