Swiping Dichotomies: Losing Self-determination to a Digital Gesture — and How to Gain It Back
Swiping Dichotomies website by Akseli Manner
Description
In "Swiping Dichotomies," Akseli Manner critically examines the swiping gesture in digital interactions, particularly in dating apps. It explores the origins of swiping, its tactile and psychological effects, and its role in shaping user autonomy. The thesis questions how algorithmic design influences decision-making, reducing complex human interactions to binary choices. By analyzing swiping's cultural and technological significance, Manner highlights the tension between agency and automation in digital interfaces. The work ultimately seeks to reclaim more intentional, nuanced interactions in a world increasingly driven by frictionless, habitual gestures dictated by platform logic and commercial interests.
Reflection
By examining the origins, cultural significance and tactile nature of swiping, this thesis establishes swiping as both a technological object and a cultural phenomenon. In exploring whether such gestures enhance or diminish autonomy in digital spaces, its analysis aligns with the ideas set out in Coded Gestures[076], as both texts critically examine how embodied technologies can either empower users or subtly dictate behaviour, urging a more intentional approach to gesture-driven design.
External references
Akseli's Instagram, Klasse Digitale Grafik — HFBK
Added on
03.04.25