In some ways, we are already there. People are doing crazy stuff based on what they read and watch on their screens all day. Content which is automatically opti

In some ways, we are already there. People are doing crazy stuff based on what they read and watch on their screens all day. Content which is automatically optimized to be engaging and influence their emotions. We also largely obey the algorithms that dictate how to navigate the streets when we drive. This might not be hyper persuasion, but it’s definitely in that direction. And depending on how you define what consciousness is, the networks, software, data and computer systems that enable this, could be seen as a conscious being that we depend on as a species.