I want to thank everyone for being here today to examine the use of persuasive technologies on internet platforms. Each of our Witnesses Today has a great deal of expertise with respect to to algorithms and as well as in the more narrow context of engagement and persuasion and brings unique perspectives to these matters. Your participation in this hearing is appreciated. I con vain this hearing in part to inform legislation i am developing to give consumers the option to engage with the platform without having the experience shaped by algorithm use specific data. Internet platforms have transferred the way we interact and made positive ways on society in ways too numerous to counting. The vast majority of content is innocuous and at its best it is entertaining, educational and beneficial to the public. However, the powerful mechanisms behind these platforms also have the ability or at least the potential to influence the thoughts and behaviors of literally billions of people. As one re