Dark Patterns

  In my opinion dark patterns in UX are not as much of a big deal as the article and darkmatter.org is implying. There are always ethical and unethical practices, as well as a gray area. It is human nature to find loopholes. I do have to admit it is a little unethical to use dark patterns. However, to me it is no different than any other practice in business. For example, the saying always read the fine print. People never take the time to read the details because the words are so tiny. The fine print is shown on papers and in commercials on tv. Another tactic is to speak really fast. For example, the prescription drug commercials on TV and the radio. When disclosing the side effects the speaker talks really fast. With sales there can also be some deception. For example, bring your own tablet at Metro PCS. I thought I could purchase a tablet and have it activated with Metro. When I got to the establishment the rep explained that you had to have an existing line already so I was not able to add the tablet. I believe that is how this interaction went. I cannot remember the details that vividly. 

  My views on websites have not changed after reading about dark patterns in UX. I am a little bit frugal so I am always watching the price of anything that I buy. I do not like my email loaded with unwanted junk mail so I am wary not to unknowingly add email subscriptions. In the event that a dark pattern does get me, I know I can easily unsubscribe by clicking the tiny words at the end of the email. Business is at its core to solve a problem but, it is also to make profit. With this in mind I do not judge businesses that value profit by any legal means necessary.

I believe there are benefits to using dark patterns in web development. Who benefits? The business of course but, how much it affects consumers is where the discussion really lies. To what degree does dark pattern harm consumers? Is it any more harmful than the traditional dark patterns in other forms of media? My opinion it is equivalent to the tactics used in traditional media. I think all internet users have come across dark patterns before. I can remember not being paying a dollar for a crafting service membership. I believed I was getting yearly access to crafting videos for a dollar. Instead I was billed fourteen dollars the next month. I quickly canceled my subscription. I did not feel cheated, I knew I misunderstood and forgot the details of the fine print. Yes, there might have been some dark patterns going on now that I learned about this term, however I do not look at the company in a negative light. If anything I just need to increase my income and make sure I understand the details before purchasing. In conclusion, I know dark patterns are not going anywhere just like how there is always a loophole to be found and no different from propaganda or word play.