A review by ngilbert
Filterworld: How Algorithms Flattened Culture by Kyle Chayka

reflective medium-paced

4.5

 Filterworld is a somewhat meandering exploration of the author’s conflicted relationship with algorithmic culture. He is, by his own admission, a frequent user and fan of recommendation algorithms — as exemplified in an affinity for bland instagram-aesthetic cafes and Airbnbs — but is also deeply concerned about the effects these algorithms have. The organization of the book is a little scattershot, but following the author’s view on curation, we’re exposed to the subjects he wants to talk about in the order he wishes to talk about them. This is a well-written, interesting synthesis of a number of different aspects of the impact of algorithms on culture.

My thanks to Doubleday and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy. 

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Content Warnings

Minor: Suicide