Today, Explained Internet bad
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Jan 4, 2026 
Max Reed, a technology and culture writer, dives into the transformation of the internet, reflecting on its shift from a space of discovery to one dominated by toxic rage bait. He shares nostalgia for the early web and how algorithms have flattened serendipity. Activist Nick Plant discusses his personal journey of quitting major social apps on Delete Day, reclaiming time and spontaneity in life offline. Together, they explore the urgent need to revive a healthier online experience that's not driven by outrage.
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Rage Bait Powers Engagement
- Rage bait is content engineered to provoke strong anger and drive engagement across platforms.
- Craig Silverman explains that provoking outrage has become a core currency on the modern internet.
Outrage Wins Regardless Of Response
- Outrageous or offensive content wins because both critics and fans consume it, so creators 'win' either way.
- Content that enrages still builds audiences and engagement over time, even if it sparks condemnation.
Brands Manufacture Outrage For Growth
- Companies deliberately manufacture rage-bait marketing and sometimes hide that it's advertising.
- Silverman describes staged classroom confrontations and AI avatars used to create fake enraging scenes.