The Evolution of Social Media: From Neutrality to Battleground

This chapter examines the transformation of social media from its early perceived neutrality to a polarized arena for political ideologies, triggered by events like the 2016 election and the COVID pandemic. It discusses the rise of decentralized platforms like Mastodon and Blue Sky, their potential for offering user-focused alternatives, and the implications of current ownership changes in major networks. The conversation highlights the importance of robust social media infrastructure and the challenges of data control, aiming for a more democratic and interconnected online experience.