Careless People

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of illness.

Algorithms are problem-solving operations or rules used by a computer in performing calculations. At Facebook, algorithms are highly advanced and capable of micro-targeting advertisements to users based on their stated interests and emotional states. Wynn-Williams does not go into the technical formulas but exposes Facebook’s use of people’s data for advertising purposes. In one egregious example, it developed a means for advertisers to target emotionally distraught teens.

The Arab Spring began in 2010, before Wynn-Williams worked at Facebook. It refers to pro-democracy and human rights movements across a range of Arab countries. Facebook was used to help organize some of these demonstrations. Levine called Wynn-Williams to ask her if Zuckerberg should take credit for the Arab Spring. While Wynn-Williams cautioned against doing so, this was a major reason why Wynn-Williams secured a job at Facebook.

Lynch syndrome is a hereditary condition that increases the risk of contracting cancer. When Wynn-Williams learned that she has this condition, it became essential that she retain health insurance; therefore she could not leave Facebook before securing another job. She also became very ill from complications in the delivery of her second child.