International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 4 (July-August 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

The Attention Economy: Reviewing How Time Became a Currency in Modern Digital Systems

Author(s) Ms. Pushti Garg
Country India
Abstract The attention economy has redefined value creation in modern digital systems by positioning human time and cognitive engagement as key economic resources. This paper presents a secondary review of existing literature to examine how digital platforms capture, sustain, and monetise user attention through persuasive design, algorithmic curation, and data-driven business models. It explores core mechanisms such as infinite scroll, variable reward systems, recommendation algorithms, and microtargeted advertising, highlighting how these tools optimise engagement while shaping user behaviour. The paper further analyses the psychological, social, and economic impacts of sustained attention capture, including cognitive fragmentation, compulsive usage patterns, misinformation, and the concentration of value among dominant platforms. While the attention economy has enabled innovation, personalisation, and new forms of digital participation, it also raises critical concerns regarding user autonomy, mental well-being, and ethical design. The review emphasises the need for regulatory frameworks, transparent systems, and user-centred design approaches to create more balanced and sustainable digital ecosystems. It concludes by identifying gaps in current research and the importance of interdisciplinary inquiry in addressing the evolving challenges of attention-driven environments.
Keywords Attention Economy, Digital Platforms, User Engagement, Algorithmic Personalisation, Behavioural Design, Data monetisation, Surveillance Capitalism
Published In Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On 2026-06-16
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i03.80299

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