“You don’t just scroll the algorithm — the algorithm scrolls you.”

We live in a world where your likes, pauses, emojis, and even facial expressions are quietly shaping the content you see — and the choices you make.

This article explores how digital platforms like Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram use cognitive-affective algorithms to influence user behavior. These emotionally intelligent systems go beyond personalization. They’re designed to predict and modify your decisions — based not only on what you do, but how you feel.

In this piece, you’ll discover:

• How cognitive + emotional data is harvested in real-time
• The feedback loops that hook you deeper into your feed
• Real-world examples of algorithmic persuasion at scale
• Why we need emotional firewalls, not just privacy settings
• What can be done to reclaim cognitive freedom in the digital age

This is a deep dive into the psychological mechanics of modern technology — essential reading for anyone working in AI, digital policy, design, or behavioral science.

👉 Read, reflect, and question: Are your choices still your own?

Want deeper analysis? Read the full whitepaper with data, graphs, and references here: https://zenodo.org/records/15450189