Mechanics

How platforms shape behavior

From your notes on Meta’s ad system: in plain English, what objective‑based optimization, behavioral modeling, and user‑level prediction mean for our minds.

Objective‑based optimization

When advertisers choose an objective (Traffic, Conversions, Leads, Engagement), the system optimizes delivery to users most likely to take that action. It isn’t “neutral time”; it’s time shaped toward micro‑actions.

Behavioral modeling

User‑level prediction

Profiles blend on‑platform behavior, off‑platform signals (pixels), device/app data, and demographics. For each campaign, the system computes: the probability you will click, buy, or sign up — and then shows you what maximizes that outcome.

The takeaway: these systems don’t just “show stuff.” They shape what you notice, feel, and do, minute by minute.