In today's world, it is crucial to be aware of broken systems that affect our lives in various ways. As we navigate through the complexities of our 2023 capitalist society, we have identified several broken systems that impact different aspects of life. In this article, we will share our experiences and insights on these systems, hoping to spark interest and awareness among our readers.
Advertising campaigns
One of the first broken systems we encountered was the advertising campaigns on LinkedIn and Facebook. We had high hopes for marketing our journal, the Journal of Emotional Bond, through these platforms. However, our experience was far from successful. We realized that only a small percentage of people actually benefit from these advertising systems, while the majority are left to sink money into a black hole with no return on investment. The existence of an entire ecosystem built around teaching people how to use these platforms is a clear indication of a broken system.
Applying to jobs
Another broken system we've observed is the job application process. While the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) was initially designed to simplify the hiring process, it has turned into an obstacle for job seekers. Candidates are now forced to tailor their resumes to pass through the ATS, often losing valuable time and energy in the process. This broken system has given rise to a whole industry of courses and consultants teaching people how to apply for jobs effectively.
Customer service
Customer service is yet another area where broken systems are prevalent. The increasing difficulty in reaching a human customer service representative is frustrating for consumers. While some companies employ human representatives, they often follow scripts, making it difficult for customers to receive personalized assistance. In other cases, companies direct customers to FAQs or online forums before allowing them to speak with a representative.
The relationship with your government
The relationship between citizens and their government is another example of a broken system. In many countries, taxpayers find that their hard-earned money is not being used effectively to improve their lives. This is particularly evident in areas such as education and healthcare, where progress is slow or non-existent. The short election cycles in some countries exacerbate this issue, as politicians focus on short-term goals rather than investing in long-term systemic improvements.
Comparing different countries' systems can provide valuable insights into the functioning of these broken systems. For example, we have observed significant differences in the educational systems of Poland and Denmark. Despite similarities in the structure of the systems, teacher salaries in Denmark are significantly higher, both in absolute terms and as a percentage of GDP. This difference highlights the importance of investing in education for the betterment of society.
We encourage you to share your own experiences and suggestions. By raising awareness and discussing these issues, we can work together to find solutions and improve the systems that govern our lives.