Yea so I think we might just end up getting into more discussion on the definition of dark pattern than discussing the issue at hand. I think I agree with you

Yea so I think we might just end up getting into more discussion on the definition of dark pattern than discussing the issue at hand. I think I agree with you that this isn't strictly a dark pattern. And dark patterns are generally not tricks per se, just... subtle differences. Putting the unsubscribe button in a 2nd level menu is a classic. I happen to know someone who was tasked with ordering pizza toppings selection in a way to encourage people to choosing the cheaper options. But whatever we call it, I think this journalist is making a strong point, which is basically hypocrisy. The media has decided that technology is bad now. So it's just desserts to call NYT on their hypocrisy. I dont want to make this too political, but I think they project their vulnerability onto technology for their industry's downfall, Trump's win, and cap it off with the racist and sexist 'techbro' slur. They are upset to not be the arbiters of truth any longer.