I don’t think that the algorithm is sentient, malevolent and out to get you. This also isn’t the vibe I got from TFA. Maybe a good analogy is the Paperclip Maximizer. But instead of maximizing for paper clips, it is maximizing online time of everyone involved.

For me the “you are the product” argument usually is countered like: “I don’t mind seeing adverts for things I like, I might get great deals”. The article isn’t really about that, but that the platforms by keeping you online draw you into arguments that aren’t good for you.