Reimagining the Internet
112. Governing the Fediverse: Erin Kissane talks her groundbreaking study into how Mastodon is run (Part 2)
Apr 30, 2025
In this installment, Erin Kissane delves into her groundbreaking research on the Fediverse and its governance. She discusses the complexities of decentralized platforms like Mastodon and contrasts them with Blue Sky, illuminating user migration patterns and community dynamics. Erin emphasizes the crucial role of marginalized groups in shaping these online spaces. Listeners gain insights into fostering healthy communities and the ongoing efforts to create safer, more inclusive networks amid the challenges prevalent in social media today.
35:02
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Quick takeaways
- The Fediverse offers decentralized social networking that prioritizes community governance, presenting both opportunities and challenges for diverse user experiences.
- User retention issues in decentralized platforms highlight the need for innovation to keep users engaged compared to familiar centralized options like Blue Sky.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Centralized Platforms
Centralized platforms like Twitter, now known as X, face significant criticism for failing to provide effective governance and often veering into propaganda. The ownership by wealthy individuals raises concerns about control over the narrative and the dissemination of misinformation. Instances where public agencies relied on these platforms for critical communications showcase the risks of placing trust in private companies that can easily shift their priorities. As such, the move towards decentralized platforms presents a critical opportunity to explore alternative governance models that prioritize community needs and mitigate the risks associated with corporate ownership.
