Can We Escape the Algorithm? How to Reclaim Your Taste and Agency in a Digital World

Practical Steps for Living Well Beyond the Feed

Feeling trapped in a world where every recommendation feels the same? You’re not alone. Kyle Chayka’s 'Filterworld' ends on a hopeful note, arguing that we can reclaim our agency and rediscover our own taste—even in a landscape shaped by algorithms. The key is intentional living: seeking out manual curation, joining offline communities, and taking breaks from the endless scroll.



Manual curation is making a comeback. Indie newsletters, curated playlists, and personal recommendations are valued more than ever. Offline, book clubs, music circles, and local meetups offer a sense of belonging and discovery that algorithms struggle to replicate. Digital sabbaticals—intentional breaks from feeds—can renew creativity and well-being.

The process isn’t always easy. It requires effort, curiosity, and a willingness to seek out the unexpected. But as more people rediscover the joy of choosing for themselves, a new cultural landscape is emerging—one that values depth over popularity, connection over convenience, and meaning over metrics.