pdb1:
After giving it a little more thought. I believe that you have may have a point.
Although they are 3 to 4 years old the weekly XP race and The Clash are probably as good examples as you can get and I think probably the point you were trying to make.
The genius that came up with those two events is somewhat of a brain hacker you could say.
those events certainly have gotten into the heads thousands of players who have certainly played right into their marketing Scheme.
I've been one of them for very long period Of time.
While I would love the credit, this is not my idea, if it were I would probably be making millions off of it in some way. I merely came across this video and felt it offered a much deeper look and insight into what is going on with technology, apps, cell phones (mobile platform), and even desktop games.
I simply felt it was information people would probably like to know and be aware of because it can give them a deeper understanding of how a game they may also enjoy...gets into their head and can even take on an addictive like aspect. By doing so, it can be very profitable.
We can all recognize to some extents how it is manifested into the game we play and enjoy, but we may not have fully grasp that those working on creating the games are also working at tapping into your "instinctual" drives, emotional values, and possibly addictive nature if it applies. It is not something they want us to be fully aware of because knowledge and information can be helpful in "managing" or restricting our behaviors into moderation and playing moderately isn't as profitable as playing obsessively!
So yes, clashes, turf wars, and CDP are all probably the obvious examples...but Tristan Harris does pose some ethical concerns as well. But, the technology industry doesn't necessarily want us to be thinking on that level because doing so may lead us into playing in a more responsible and thoughtful manner rather than what looks more like obsessive compulsive behavior by some.
That obsessive behavior by a few can then "drive" others emotional or "competitive" side to try and "compete" and it grows into a vicious cycle because they draw upon a very real and tangible aspect of our instinctual drive.
As our discussion has progressed...is it a coincidence it no longer pops up on the top of the first page (on mine at least) as a popular discussion or it that just me thinking too much. I always saw it right away, now I have to locate it from my own discussion threads list. Seems peculiar, but it could just be coincidence.
Edit...Just saw your updated post. saddened to hear the news and saga of your medical situation Paul. I hope things work out and you get to feeling better!