Essay2Dating: A Friction-Centric, Non-Visual Social Platform for Intentional Digital Intimacy

Essay2Dating is an experimental social software system that challenges dopamine-driven, visual-first interaction models prevalent in modern dating platforms. The system removes profile photos entirely and replaces them with long-form narrative essays, enforcing intentional friction as a core UX and architectural principle. The platform is implemented using a serverless Firebase backend with Firestore document modeling, authentication gating, and strict security rules to protect user vulnerability. On the frontend, Essay2Dating employs Intersection Observer–based slow-scroll mechanics and a minimalist design system to disrupt impulsive consumption patterns and promote deep cognitive engagement. This repository contains the complete source code and research documentation for Phase I of the project. Essay2Dating is positioned as a research artifact in Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) and Slow-Tech design, demonstrating how full-stack engineering choices can embody ethical stances on attention, intimacy, and human connection.