Max Fisher from The New York Times discusses the evolutionary reasons humans can't thrive on social media. Douglas Rushkoff explores tech billionaires' extreme preparations. Alex Mesoudi talks about the impact of social media on human cognition. The podcast explores the cultural evolution and potential changes in the social media landscape.
Social media platforms are facing a decline due to extreme behavior and financial incentives.
Tech billionaires are preparing for societal collapse caused by their technological advancements.
Algorithms manipulate users' emotions on social media, leading to behavioral changes and potential offline effects.
Deep dives
Evolution of Social Media Behaviors
Social media platforms are facing a decline as societal behavior changes. The podcast explores how cultural anthropologists have observed extreme conduct on social media and the financial incentives influencing it. The evolutionary mismatch between human nature and social media may lead to significant consequences for the future of these platforms.
Tech Billionaires' Retreat Plans
Tech billionaires are investing in survival bunkers and islands in preparation for a perceived social catastrophe. The podcast discusses how these ultra-wealthy stakeholders are seeking advice on securing themselves from a potential societal breakdown that could result from their own technological advancements.
Manipulation on Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms manipulate users' emotions to increase engagement and drive extreme opinions. The podcast highlights how algorithms curate content to provoke outrage, altering users' behavior online and potentially affecting their thoughts and actions offline.
Harmful Effects of Social Media
The harmful consequences of social media are becoming apparent, with addictive behaviors and negative impacts on mental health and society. The podcast examines the role of social media in influencing societal unrest and violence, as well as the potential long-term effects on individuals.
The Need for Downscaling Social Media
There is a growing recognition of the need to downscale social media interactions to foster healthier online behaviors. Downsizing followers, limiting engagement, and focusing on meaningful relationships are suggested strategies to mitigate the negative effects of social media on individuals and society.
Before you check your social media feeds today. And post. And post again. And get into an argument on Twitter, lose track of time and wonder where the morning went, consider that social media was never a natural way to socialize.
A cultural anthropologist weighs in on the evolutionary reasons humans can’t thrive on social media. And we hear about the signs that social media is on its way out. If that’s the case, what’s next?