interestoften

Interestoften is a coined concept used in some circles of media studies and information science to describe a pattern in which a user repeatedly shows interest in a subset of topics because those topics are regularly surfaced by algorithms, editors, or social networks. The term draws attention to how exposure and curation influence what people find engaging, potentially shaping long-term preferences.

Etymology and usage are informal. The word appears to be a blend drawn from interest-related vocabulary in Scandinavian languages, with oft meaning often. It is not part of a formal academic taxonomy, and its exact definition can vary among writers. In practice, interoften is invoked to discuss how repeated recommendations or editorial emphasis can amplify interest in specific topics beyond what a person might seek out unaided.

Definition and scope. Interestoften characterizes both short-term bursts of interest in topic clusters and more persistent preferences that endure across browsing sessions or days. It highlights the feedback loop created when exposure increases attention, which in turn prompts more exposure. It is often discussed in relation to recommender systems, feed algorithms, and content curation, where the arrangement of what users see can influence perceived relevance and curiosity.

Implications and critique. Proponents argue that interoften helps explain patterns of engagement and the growth of topic silos or niches online. Critics note that the term is informal and can obscure other factors—such as intrinsic motivation, context, or external events—that drive interest. Consequently, it is typically used as a descriptive shorthand rather than a rigorous measure.

See also: attention economy, filter bubble, echo chamber, recommender systems.