Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Facebook’s former security boss Alex Stamos and Twitter co-founder Ev Williams (Live)
May 24, 2019
In a lively discussion, Alex Stamos, former Chief Security Officer at Facebook, shares insights on the platform’s misunderstood role in democracy, advocating for regulatory changes and accountability measures. He critiques corporate policies and proposes shifts in compensation to prioritize societal benefits. Ev Williams, co-founder of Twitter, reflects on his exit from the board, shares his thoughts on media evolution, and highlights the investment landscape's lack of diversity. They both explore the complexities and responsibilities of social media in connecting and impacting society.
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Misunderstood Facebook
- Facebook is directionally criticized correctly, but details are often wrong.
- Societal issues and company responsibility should be separated in the criticism.
Fixing Tech Issues
- Expand the definition of political advertising.
- Reduce the ability to micro-target ads at individuals.
2012 Election Manipulation
- The Obama campaign's effective use of Facebook ads in 2012 was an early example of online manipulation.
- Cambridge Analytica mirrored tactics used in that election.