On with Kara Swisher

Alexis Ohanian and Deb Roy on Big Tech’s Effects on Democracy

7 snips
Oct 26, 2023
Join Alexis Ohanian, Reddit co-founder and venture capitalist, alongside Deb Roy, MIT professor and director of the Center for Constructive Communication, as they delve into the pressing challenges democracy faces from Big Tech. They discuss the evolution of Reddit and advocate for a shift towards constructive digital engagement. The duo critiques the internet’s advertising-driven business model, explores misinformation's grip on public discourse, and examines how tech platforms can encourage authentic interactions in our increasingly fragmented online world.
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ANECDOTE

Blaming Reddit

  • Kara Swisher blames Alexis Ohanian for the current state of social media and misinformation.
  • This sets the stage for a discussion on the role of platforms like Reddit in shaping online discourse.
INSIGHT

Gamified Nature

  • Social media gamifies the worst parts of human nature, prioritizing speed over accuracy in news dissemination.
  • User-generated content (UGC), while fast, often lacks veracity and fuels the spread of misinformation.
ANECDOTE

Social Media vs. Social Networks

  • Deb Roy's article, "The Internet Could Actually Be Good, Really," explores the shift from social networks to social media.
  • He highlights how adopting a media model with advertising transformed online platforms, prioritizing audience growth over genuine connection.
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