Envisioning a More Human-Centric Internet Future
Written on
Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Modern Internet
In today's online landscape, particularly on social media, there exists a fervent dialogue filled with either apocalyptic or utopian perspectives regarding the evolution of the internet. Many proponents, often from tech-savvy circles, predict that the next iteration, dubbed Web3, will usher in an era characterized by greater openness and freedom. Central to this vision is blockchain technology, a “shared, immutable ledger” designed to transparently and instantly document transactions and asset exchanges.
With Web3, users are expected to utilize cryptocurrency to develop and invest in new platforms, potentially creating social networks that are partially owned by their users rather than corporate entities. Advocates argue that this shift could liberate us from the control of giant tech corporations and their data-handling practices. Instead of placing our trust in platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google, we would rely on blockchain technology, which promises a unified perception of truth.
However, skepticism toward cryptocurrency and Web3 is prevalent, and rightly so. The volatility of the crypto market, coupled with frequent scams, raises concerns that it might resemble a vast Ponzi scheme. Yet, the concepts surrounding crypto and Web3 reflect a deeper discontent with the current state of the internet, where many users express a desire for a fresh start, even if that solution may be misguided. This leads to a critical question: What direction should we take with the internet? How can we tackle its inherent shortcomings?
The existing internet paradigm is neither wholly positive nor completely negative; however, it increasingly feels like a misstep, especially during its more challenging moments. A drastic overhaul isn't necessary to enrich a select group of aggressive tech enthusiasts — we've already witnessed that. Change is imperative. The global interconnectedness envisioned by platforms like Facebook and Twitter may not be entirely over, but it has certainly lost its initial allure. The mass connectivity that was supposed to create a utopia has often resulted in the opposite.
This is where crypto advocates begin to lose my support. Their proposition mirrors a promise reminiscent of a decade ago — that increased connectivity would naturally foster trust. In contrast, while the social media networks founded by figures like Zuckerberg relied on human relationships to build trust, the crypto movement suggests that trust can be derived from a stronger bond with technology. This raises numerous concerns, and the debate over a 'centralized' versus 'decentralized' web can appear to devolve into a discussion among ideological purists — akin to debating variations of socialism without addressing its fundamental issues.
Section 1.1: The Future of the Internet
Recently, discussions around the "vibe shift" have gained traction, sparked by an interview with Sean Monahan of K-HOLE, a trend forecasting group that predicted the rise of "normcore" in 2013. Monahan articulated that trends can change swiftly, and he senses a turning point is approaching. He noted that the trajectory of the 2010s feels exhausted, with public fatigue towards culture wars and social media—two pillars that once guided pop culture.
Monahan's observations resonate — the social web has indeed grown impersonal. More critically, it feels dehumanizing, both in its structure (akin to a casino) and its aims (to ensnare users). The notion that we cannot revert to previous states is partly true; the internet is here to stay. What can change, however, is our approach to its usage. Perhaps the flaws lie not in the technology itself, but in how we engage with it.
Section 1.2: Rethinking Connection
Just because the internet is woven into our societal fabric does not mean its foundational ideologies are set in stone. The discourse surrounding crypto, Web3, and NFTs echoes the fervor of late-1990s internet enthusiasts. If we are indeed experiencing a vibe shift, it is essential to recognize the fluidity of our current situation. We may still be in the midst of this transition, unsure of where it will lead us. In this context, our assumptions about connection as inherently beneficial must be re-evaluated.
What if we approached the internet with the perspective that connection could be detrimental? This might lead us to a conception of Web3 that is quite different or perhaps even simpler. It could suggest that we utilize the internet more sparingly and thoughtfully, relying less on it for self-validation. Ultimately, we might reclaim our lives, making them more personal. In this scenario, the last thing we would do with the internet would be to interact with everyone globally — that would be absurd.
Chapter 2: Embracing a New Paradigm
In examining the shift in how we perceive and interact with the internet, it becomes clear that a new paradigm is necessary. By reconsidering our relationship with technology and fostering a more human-centric approach, we may begin to reshape the internet into a space that serves us better, rather than one that merely entraps us.