The Internet has lost its innocence, but it can still be saved

One measure could be to put the worst battlefields behind us. Like, for example, Elon Musk’s X, writes Hans-Peter Nygaard-Hansen (pictured). Photo: Hans Peter Nygaard Hansen

From the stadium to the war zone.

Publication date: 10/18/2023 01:00 | Updated: 10/19/2023 00:05

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The Internet was born from the idea of creating an open space where people could exchange ideas, share information, and explore endless possibilities. Thirty years later, more than 60 percent of the world’s population is online, and the Web now reflects the best of humanity, but also unfortunately the worst of us.

In many ways, Elon Musk’s X platform demonstrates how The digital landscape has become a battleground. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas means the platform is packed with content misinformation, Fake news, Dislikes And trolling. The Internet has evolved into a dangerous tool for political manipulation and subversion of democracy on a global scale.

The platform giants promised us a democratic forum, but the reality is an echo chamber of division and hatred. Algorithms have trapped us in a vortex of false information and polarization.

In X, editor-controlled media are blocked, while paid and verified accounts remain Compensate her financially To spread misleading information. The truth was given a market value lower than the value of the obligation. Emotions have trumped facts.

The digital world has opened doors to everything from financially motivated criminals to state-sponsored hacking groups. These dark sides are also beginning to undermine our mental health. We have become Less sympathetic And more distrust. Former Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg’s (AFP) promise of greater openness, love and democracy in the wake of the Utoya terror attack It now seems like a distant thought.

Artificial intelligence will intensify these challenges, as truth will be drowned out by lies and hatred. A combination of regulation, accountability, education, and innovation can be the way out of the battlefield. Meanwhile, it is up to us.

The Internet can still become a safe playground and a public arena, but then we also have to decide that.

One measure could be to put the worst battlefields behind us. Like, for example, Elon Musk’s X.

Hans Peter Nygaard Hansen

Communications consultant, speaker and entrepreneur