Profits over principles. How Propaganda May Distort Our Values… | by John | Jul, 2023

How Propaganda May Distort Our Values and Transform Us

Have you ever been tempted to compromise your values for financial gain?

We often view our moral compass as an innate part of us. Yet, when money enters the equation, our perspectives can shift dramatically. This financial concern can lead us to make decisions that contradict what our hearts tell us is right.

The advent of the internet was a significant milestone for our society. It presented us with myriad opportunities, from creating art to building businesses, learning new skills, meeting new people, connecting with our families, and finding solutions to our everyday challenges.

However, with the progress of the internet emerged two significant phenomena: social media and artificial intelligence. Today, it seems we can’t live without social media. I’ve yet to meet someone who doesn’t use at least one of the countless social media platforms available. As for artificial intelligence, it’s a topic that excites some and worries others. But an intriguing development occurs when you blend money, social media, and AI.

Now, almost everyone participates in affiliate programs or runs ads on their blogs or websites. These individuals, known as influencers, are often seen demonstrating how easy it is to make money through social media using AI.

I must clarify that I’m not against this practice. However, I’ve noticed an unsettling trend. It seems like the rest of us are being deemed ‘losers’ if we’re not cashing in on this potent mix. If you’re not creating videos with AI, you’re a loser. If you’re not promoting affiliate marketing on platforms like Quora, you’re a loser. If you’re not rapidly writing and publishing books on Amazon, you’re a loser. If you’re not generating 20 posts daily on Medium or other platforms, you’re a loser. Of course, everything done with AI.

The primary objective of these platforms should be to deliver quality products or services. This goal can only be achieved by producing useful content which usually requiring human judgement to assess feasibility. In my view, pressuring individuals to compromise their values for quick financial gain is morally questionable.

This leads us to an important question: is it right for influencers to use propaganda, aimed solely at altering our inner morals for the sake of pay-per-click profit? Should we forsake our humanity for the mere pursuit of money?