Article Summary:
Dana Milbank discovers hope for reversing social media’s societal damage: A group of tech entrepreneurs from companies like Twitter, Pinterest, and Google are developing West Co., a new platform called “Tangle” that aims to help people live more meaningful lives through AI technology. Founders Christopher “Biz” Stone and Evan Sharp, who acknowledge their previous contributions to potentially harmful social media platforms, are seeking redemption by creating a purpose-discovery tool.
Tangle uses AI to help users define their life purposes by analyzing their calendars, photos, and personal information. The platform encourages users to set intentions, receive support from a community, and reflect on meaningful experiences. Unlike traditional tech products, West Co. focuses on human flourishing rather than maximizing screen time.
The company’s approach differs from typical Silicon Valley culture by incorporating rituals, moments of silence, and a focus on personal growth. Their goal is to use technology to help people live more intentionally and connect with causes greater than themselves.
Early testing shows promising results, with employees experiencing significant personal transformations. For instance, the COO quit her job to spend more time with her daughter, and Stone committed to being more present for his son.
While the platform is still in development and lacks a clear revenue model, the founders are self-funded and have received $29 million in seed funding. They aim to create a tool that helps people turn off “autopilot” and discover more meaningful life purposes.
The project represents a potential alternative approach to technology that prioritizes human well-being over engagement metrics and seeks to address the negative impacts of previous digital innovations.