Social Media Has Become an Information Network: But It Wasn't Designed for It

Note: This article is being updated. The old version was too radical and blaming. The fundamental belief stays the same — we should have more decentralised information networks and use tools to improve content quality, and find alternatives for the algorithm. We need to build a new designed information network, with social interaction tools, fostering discussions and decision making.

In recent years, the landscape of social media has shifted dramatically. From text-based interactions and insightful conversations, we've moved towards video-driven platforms where quick, flashy content dominates. The algorithms designed to maximize engagement now prioritize entertainment and sensationalism over meaningful information.

The Social Media Colosseum: Modern Manipulation of the Masses

If we look back at history, there's an eerie parallel between today's social media environment and the gladiator fights of ancient Rome. Just as the Roman Colosseum provided a distraction for the masses, today's endless stream of video content keeps people entertained and disengaged from the issues that truly matter. In a world where attention is currency, this content is designed to generate profit, not foster understanding.

The Danger: A Society Deprived of Critical Thinking

The problem isn't just that people are wasting their time. The real danger lies in the degradation of critical thinking. The more time we spend passively consuming shallow content, the less we engage in deep reflection, meaningful conversations, and the search for truth.

Digital Identities and Accountability

One of the key issues with today's social media is the lack of accountability. Anonymity and the rise of AI agents have made it easy for individuals and organizations to spread false information without consequences. To counter this, we need to implement digital identities that tie online actions to real-world consequences.

AI as a Tool for Truth

Artificial intelligence has been at the heart of the problem, but it can also be part of the solution. We need AI to support our efforts in detecting misinformation, analyzing data for accuracy, and promoting fact-checked content.

A European Approach to Social Media

To make this vision a reality, Europe must take the lead in creating its own social media platforms — systems that prioritize freedom of speech while also ensuring accountability. By building a social media platform rooted in European values, we can create a space for genuine communication, critical thinking, and the expansion of human consciousness.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

We find ourselves at a crossroads. The current trajectory of social media is leading us toward a future where truth is harder to find, critical thinking is rare, and manipulation is the norm. But it doesn't have to be this way. With education, accountability, and the right use of AI, we can reshape social media into a tool that helps humanity evolve rather than devolve.