MIT Technology Review Narrated How to fix the internet
Nov 26, 2025
The discussion explores why the internet feels broken and emphasizes the need for better online communication. It highlights the dual nature of the internet, showcasing its harms like misinformation alongside its community benefits. The conversation dives into the toxic effects of ad models and engagement-maximizing algorithms. Hopeful signs emerge with new payment models and federated platforms like Mastodon. Experts suggest smaller networks and better moderation strategies as potential solutions, ending on a positive note about the need for diverse online spaces.
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Internet's Dual Nature
- The internet contains both profound harms and real value, serving marginalized groups and aiding crises.
- Katie Notopoulos argues we should preserve its benefits while fixing structural harms.
Freedom Ethos Fueled Early Design
- Early internet culture prized freedom and information-for-all over commercial incentives.
- That ethos unintentionally ignored harms later amplified by scale and demographics.
Ad Targeting Reshaped Incentives
- Targeted advertising became the dominant business model and reshaped online incentives.
- This data-driven ad economy turned users into products to be optimized for attention.