The Rise of Online Dating Apps

The podcast explores the rise of online dating apps, focusing on Tinder as a game-changer. Alison Davis, a user of Tinder, describes the excitement and optimism of having a catalog of potential matches at her fingertips. The podcast traces the history of online dating from the video cassette dating of the 80s to the emergence of dating websites in the 90s. With the introduction of the iPhone, Tinder took online dating to a new level of convenience and accessibility. The app's swipe function and gamified approach to romance made it incredibly popular. Tinder's success was fueled by the dopamine hits users experienced with each swipe, creating a ludic loop and constant engagement. While Tinder became a dominant force in the dating app market, it also had consequences, such as perpetuating hookup culture and fostering disposable relationships. The podcast raises questions about whether these apps truly help or hurt our chances of finding meaningful connections.