I deleted my algorithmic feeds last year. Here's what I learned.

The algorithm optimizes for engagement. Engagement means strong emotions. Strong emotions mean outrage, fear, and anxiety.

This is not a conspiracy. It's incentives. Companies that sell ads need your attention. Outrage holds attention better than calm.

So I quit.

I replaced Twitter with RSS. I replaced Instagram with email newsletters. I replaced YouTube recommendations with direct subscriptions.

The difference is stark.

RSS shows me exactly what I subscribed to, in chronological order. Nothing more. Nothing less. No "you might also like." No "trending in your network." No manufactured controversy.

At first, it felt empty. Where was the constant stream? Where was the noise?

Then I realized: the emptiness was peace.

I read what I chose to read. I finish articles instead of scrolling past headlines. I remember what I read yesterday.

The algorithm's job is to steal your attention. RSS's job is to deliver content.

Choose your tools carefully. They shape your mind.

Next week: what we lost when we abandoned hypertext.