In 'The Attention Merchants,' Tim Wu unveils the captivating history of how our attention has become the most valuable commodity in the modern world. From the dawn of advertising to the rise of social media, Wu meticulously chronicles the evolution of industries that thrive on capturing and selling our focus. As he exposes the tactics employed by powerful corporations, readers are compelled to question the very nature of their relationship with technology and media. With sharp insights and engaging narratives, Wu challenges us to consider the cost of distraction and the importance of reclaiming our attention. This thought-provoking journey leaves readers pondering: can we resist the lure of the attention economy?
By Tim Wu
Published: 2017
"In a world increasingly shaped by our attention, we are reminded that the most valuable currency is not what we have, but how we choose to spend our focus."
From the author of the award-winning The Master Switch, who coined the term "net neutrality”—a revelatory, ambitious and urgent account of how the capture and re-sale of human attention became the defining industry of our time. "Dazzling." —Financial Times Ours is often called an information economy, but at a moment when access to information is virtually unlimited, our attention has become the ultimate commodity. In nearly every moment of our waking lives, we face a barrage of efforts to harvest our attention. This condition is not simply the byproduct of recent technological innovations but the result of more than a century's growth and expansion in the industries that feed on human attention. Wu’s narrative begins in the nineteenth century, when Benjamin Day discovered he could get rich selling newspapers for a penny. Since then, every new medium—from radio to television to Internet companies such as Google and Facebook—has attained commercial viability and immense riches by turning itself into an advertising platform. Since the early days, the basic business model of “attention merchants” has never changed: free diversion in exchange for a moment of your time, sold in turn to the highest-bidding advertiser. Full of lively, unexpected storytelling and piercing insight, The Attention Merchants lays bare the true nature of a ubiquitous reality we can no longer afford to accept at face value.
Showing 8 of 15 similar books
Charlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Bridget Phetasy is a multi-talented writer, comedian, and podcaster known for her sharp wit and insightful commentary on contemporary culture and politics. She gained prominence through her work with Playboy, where her essays and columns attracted a wide readership. Bridget is the host of the popular podcast "Walk-Ins Welcome," where she engages in deep, humorous conversations with a variety of guests. Her candid and often provocative takes on societal issues have garnered her a loyal following on social media. Additionally, she created the satirical YouTube series "Dumpster Fire," where she humorously dissects current events.
Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
Cleo Abram is a distinguished journalist and content creator known for her incisive storytelling and engaging multimedia presentations. She gained widespread recognition as a producer and host for Vox's acclaimed series, "Glad You Asked," where she explored complex topics with clarity and depth. Abram's work often intersects with technology and culture, making intricate subjects accessible to a broad audience. In addition to her journalistic endeavors, she has contributed thought-provoking essays and articles to various esteemed publications. Her innovative approach to storytelling continues to influence and inspire both readers and aspiring journalists.
Matt Mullenweg is an influential American entrepreneur and web developer, best known for co-founding WordPress, the open-source software that powers over 40% of the web. Born in 1984 in Houston, Texas, Mullenweg's work has revolutionized digital publishing and democratized web content creation. As the CEO of Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, he has expanded the platform's reach and capabilities, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users. Mullenweg is also an advocate for open-source software and has contributed significantly to its proliferation and adoption. His impact on digital literature and publishing is profound, enabling countless individuals and organizations to share their voices online.
Jessica Livingston is an influential author and co-founder of Y Combinator, a prominent startup accelerator in Silicon Valley. She is best known for her book "Founders at Work: Stories of Startups' Early Days," which offers invaluable insights through interviews with successful entrepreneurs. Her work has significantly contributed to the understanding of startup culture and entrepreneurship. Livingston's efforts have helped launch and support numerous successful tech companies. Her contributions to literature and the startup community continue to inspire and educate aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
Cynthia Johnson is a celebrated author known for her poignant novels that explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection. She gained critical acclaim with her debut novel, "Whispers in the Wind," which won the National Book Award for Fiction. Her subsequent works, including "Echoes of the Past" and "Fragments of Tomorrow," have been praised for their lyrical prose and deeply emotional narratives. Johnson's contributions extend beyond her writing, as she actively mentors emerging writers and advocates for literacy programs in underserved communities. With a career spanning over two decades, she has firmly established herself as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Showing 8 of 11 related collections
“In a world increasingly shaped by our attention, we are reminded that the most valuable currency is not what we have, but how we choose to spend our focus.”
The Attention Merchants
By Tim Wu
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Tim Wu is a prominent legal scholar, professor, and author known for his insightful analysis of technology and media. He is the author of notable works such as 'The Master Switch: The Rise and Fall of Information Empires,' which explores the history and future of communication industries, and 'The Attention Merchants: The Epic Scramble to Get Inside Our Heads,' which critiques the economy of attention in the digital age. Wu's writing style is characterized by its clarity, depth, and ability to intertwine complex legal concepts with engaging narratives. As a professor at Columbia Law School, he continues to influence discussions around technology policy and civil liberties.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In the electrifying world of 1888, "The Last Days of Night" follows the fierce battle between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse over the future of electricity. Amidst corporate espionage and technological innovation, a young lawyer named Paul Cravath navigates this thrilling landscape of ambition and betrayal. As he uncovers secrets and confronts moral dilemmas, Paul finds himself entangled not only in a war of inventions but also in a complicated romance with the enigmatic figure of Westinghouse's assistant. With the fate of electric power hanging in the balance, can he outsmart the titans of industry? This captivating tale of ingenuity and rivalry will leave you questioning the true cost of progress.
Delve into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and music with Daniel J. Levitin's 'This Is Your Brain on Music.' The author, a neuroscientist and musician, unravels how our brains perceive, process, and are profoundly affected by music. From the emotional responses it elicits to the cognitive impact of rhythm and melody, Levitin offers a captivating exploration of music's role in human experience. With insights that challenge preconceived notions about music, this book will leave you pondering the power it holds over our minds and lives. Whether you're a casual listener or a seasoned musician, the revelations in this book will resonate with you long after the last note.
In 'The Shallows', Nicholas Carr explores how the internet is reshaping our brains and altering our ability to think deeply. He argues that the constant distractions of the digital age are making us more superficial, undermining our capacity for critical thinking and reflection. Through riveting examples and compelling research, Carr delves into the psychological and neurological impacts of our online habits. As we become more accustomed to quick information and multitasking, what are we losing in terms of our intellectual depth? This thought-provoking book invites readers to contemplate the trade-offs of our hyperconnected world.
In 'Hardcore History', Dan Carlin takes listeners on an epic auditory journey through the annals of human conflict, exploring the profound impact of war on civilization. His vivid storytelling and deep analysis breathe life into historical events, making even the most distant eras feel immediate and relevant. With a unique blend of passion and intellect, Carlin challenges conventional narratives, urging us to question what we think we know about our past. Each episode transforms history into a gripping tale of human drama, complete with the moral dilemmas faced by our ancestors. Prepare to rethink history as you uncover the haunting truths hidden in the echoes of time.
Delve into the glamorous world of high fashion and celebrity culture in 'The Coveteur' by Stephanie Mark. This captivating narrative takes you behind-the-scenes, showcasing exclusive interviews with style icons and their jaw-dropping wardrobes. Explore the personal stories and unique tastes of the elite, revealing what truly defines luxury in today’s society. With stunning visuals and insightful commentary, the book invites readers to reflect on their own relationship with fashion and identity. Are you ready to discover the treasures hidden in the closets of the world's most coveted personalities?
In 'A Liberated Mind,' psychologist Steven Hayes unveils the transformative power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This groundbreaking approach invites readers to embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fight against them. Through compelling stories and practical exercises, Hayes guides readers on a journey to discover their core values and align their lives with them. As they learn to cultivate psychological flexibility, they will find greater joy and meaning amidst life's challenges. Are you ready to unlock your mind and live a life of purpose?
In 'The Old Way,' Elizabeth Marshall Thomas takes readers on a compelling journey into the lives of ancient hunter-gatherer societies. Through her vivid storytelling and personal experiences, she reveals the intricate dynamics of these communities, bridging the gap between the past and present. The book challenges our modern perceptions of civilization and explores the deep connections humans have with nature and each other. With a blend of anthropology and memoir, Thomas invites us to reflect on what we can learn from these timeless ways of life. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about human existence and our place in the world.
In 'Catastrophic Care,' David Goldhill presents a provocative critique of the American healthcare system, exposing its inefficiencies and ethical dilemmas. He argues that the root of the crisis lies in the misaligned incentives and lack of accountability within healthcare practices. With a blend of personal anecdotes and rigorous research, Goldhill challenges readers to reconsider the deep-seated assumptions about health and economics. What if health insurance isn’t the answer? This compelling exploration invites readers to envision a future where healthcare is reimagined and reclaimed.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
