Quote:
Originally Posted by bopat
You know you don't need to get a magazine or click on a click-bait link for those "top-n" lists, you can generate them youself with chatgpt or google gemini,
Here's a good one from google gemini:
> give me a top 5 list of reasons why top 5 lists are fake
Top 5 Reasons Why Top 5 Lists Are Fake (or at Least Questionable)
1. Subjectivity Reigns Supreme
Top 5 lists are inherently subjective. What's number one for one person might be number five for another. Without concrete, measurable criteria, these lists often reflect the opinion of one person or a small group, not objective truth.
2. Clickbait Central
Many top 5 lists are designed to attract clicks rather than provide genuinely valuable information. Sensational headlines and provocative content often take precedence over accuracy and depth.
3. Oversimplification is the Norm
Complex issues are reduced to five simple points. This simplification often leads to overgeneralizations and a lack of nuance.
4. Lack of Rigorous Research
While some lists are backed by data and extensive research, many are based on anecdotal evidence, personal opinions, or even guesswork.
5. Potential for Bias
List creators may have personal or financial incentives to include or exclude certain items. This bias can skew the list and undermine its credibility.
|
This is so true of so much information on the Internet. Just yesterday I saw an article in my Google newsfeed that listed Minnesota and Colorado as one of the worst places to retire.
article here
Without knowing the underlying source (and motivation) of any sites data, I always take it with a healthy dose of skepticism.