INTERNET SOLUTIONS

A comprehensive analysis of community-driven solutions and alternatives to fix the modern internet, compiled from discussions on "We Didn't Ask for This Internet" by The Ezra Klein Show.

WATCH VIDEO
SHARE:

SOLUTIONS & ALTERNATIVES

The following solutions range from individual actions to large-scale systemic changes, indicating that a multi-faceted approach is needed to address the complex problems of the modern internet.

Decentralization & Data Portability

Data Portability and Crossposting
The ability for users to move their data freely between platforms and to post content to multiple platforms simultaneously. This is presented as a way to counteract the 'enshittification' of platforms.
Enshittification by Cory Doctorow

Regulation & Legislation

Break up Monopolies
The idea of using antitrust laws to break up large tech companies that dominate the market.
Regulate Advertisements
Implementing rules similar to those for television advertising, such as limiting the amount of advertising per hour.
Strengthen Data Privacy Laws
The European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is mentioned as a step in the right direction, although some commenters feel it doesn't go far enough. The use of 'auto-cookie-clicker apps/browser add-ons' is mentioned as an innovative response to circumvent annoying cookie pop-ups.
Plebiscites
The use of direct votes by the electorate to decide on tech-related policies.

Alternative Platforms & Communities

Niche Online Communities (e.g., Discord)
Finding and participating in smaller, more focused online communities, such as those on Discord, is seen as a way to experience a more positive and collaborative internet.
Discord

Mindful Consumption & Individual Action

Quit Social Media
The book 'Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now' by Jaron Lanier is mentioned as a resource for those considering leaving social media.
Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now
Support Non-Profit or Sponsored Content
Actively seeking out and consuming content from non-profit organizations or creators who are transparent about their funding can lead to higher quality information.

Economic & Philosophical Perspectives

'Small is Beautiful' Economics
The work of E.F. Schumacher, particularly his book 'Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics As If People Mattered,' is referenced as a different way of thinking about economics and technology.
Small Is Beautiful by E.F. Schumacher

CONCLUSION

The comments on the YouTube video reflect a deep dissatisfaction with the current state of the internet, but also a desire for a better online world. The proposed solutions range from individual choices to large-scale regulatory changes, indicating that a multi-faceted approach is needed to address the complex problems of the modern internet.

From breaking up monopolies and strengthening data privacy laws to embracing niche communities and supporting quality content, these solutions represent a collective vision for an internet that serves people rather than extracting value from them.

REFERENCES

[1]Doctorow, C. (n.d.). Enshittification. Macmillan. Retrieved from https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374619329/enshittification

[2]Lanier, J. (2018). Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now. Henry Holt and Co.

[3]Schumacher, E. F. (1973). Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics As If People Mattered. Blond & Briggs.