Is Social Media Broken? Tech Leaders Discuss Solutions

The Escalation of Online Toxicity and Building Healthier Communities

Recent years have witnessed a significant surge in toxic online environments, encompassing dangerous conspiracies and organized hate speech. During TechCrunch Sessions: Justice, a discussion was held with Rashad Robinson of Color of Change, Jesse Lehrich and Naj Austin from Accountable Tech, Somewhere Good, and Ethel’s Club. The conversation centered on the extent of social networks’ responsibility for this rise and strategies for fostering positive online communities.

Cultivating Positive Behavior Through Intentional Social Spaces

Our perception of social networks is often dominated by the large, prevailing platforms. However, these aren't the sole models for digital community development. Alternative networks, specifically designed for particular communities, have the potential to nurture healthier and more constructive experiences for those who require such spaces.

• The founder of Ethel’s Club is introducing Somewhere Good, a social platform prioritizing people of color.

Challenging Tech Industry Exceptionalism

Despite its considerable wealth, influence, lobbying efforts, and the globally impactful nature of its products, the tech industry historically avoids comparison to sectors like oil and gas or tobacco. However, as the widespread societal consequences of Silicon Valley’s actions become increasingly apparent, this sense of exceptionalism appears increasingly untenable.

• Leaders of the Facebook boycott expressed ‘disappointment’ following meetings with Zuckerberg and Sandberg.
• As the advertiser boycott expanded, lawmakers pressed Facebook regarding white supremacy.
• Donald Trump engaged in discussions with tech industry leaders.

Lessons from the Clinton Campaign Regarding Online Hate and Disinformation

Although 2016 feels distant in the context of the 2021 pandemic, Donald Trump’s successful presidential campaign, the ensuing Russian disinformation scandal, and the open acceptance of white supremacy within mainstream politics provided a stark preview of the challenges that would unfold in the subsequent years.

• Concerns about potential violence surrounding the inauguration cast a long shadow over social media platforms.
• An examination of how Russia’s online influence campaign engaged with millions of users was conducted.
• Facebook emerged as a primary recruitment tool for the far-right group, the Proud Boys.

Social Platforms as Mirrors of Existing Societal Racism

Similar to more established industries, the tech sector is largely comprised of white men who have amassed wealth by developing products based on their own experiences. While the industry may be inherently forward-looking, a failure to acknowledge and address historical societal power structures, such as misogyny and white supremacy, will inevitably lead to the perpetuation of these inequities on a larger scale.

• Facebook finally implemented a ban on white supremacy, even when expressed under different guises.
• The tech industry is currently struggling to effectively combat white supremacy.
• YouTube banned accounts belonging to David Duke, Richard Spencer, and other white nationalist figures.

The Influence of Lived Experience on Design

A crucial step in creating social networks that support a diverse range of communities is to include members of those communities in the development process from the outset. Designing online spaces that feel safe and enriching comes naturally when your community has consistently faced online hate and harassment elsewhere.

• The benefits of diverse teams for business success are consistently demonstrated.
• Reddit appointed its second Black board member this year.

Government Accountability for Social Platforms

Federal and state governments are now showing increased interest in regulating the substantial power wielded by the tech industry. A potential starting point could involve applying similar regulatory frameworks to tech as those already in place for issues like food safety.

A significant obstacle in regulating large tech companies is their immense size and power, rendering financial penalties largely ineffective. Genuine change requires a realignment of industry incentives through an examination of the structures that enabled these companies to achieve such dominance without adequate oversight.

• The SAFE TECH Act proposes Section 230 reform, though its opponents caution about potential unintended consequences.
• The Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google.
• Facebook faced a substantial antitrust lawsuit initiated by 46 states.

The complete transcript of the discussion is available for review here.

Related sessions from TechCrunch Sessions: Justice

TechCrunch Sessions: Justice featured a number of insightful discussions. Several sessions explored critical themes within the justice system and related societal challenges.

Tackling Deep-Seated Bias

One key area of focus was addressing deep-seated bias. This session examined the systemic factors that contribute to prejudice and discrimination.

Discussions centered on identifying and mitigating biases within various institutions. Strategies for promoting fairness and equity were also explored.

The Path Forward for Essential Workers

The challenges and needs of essential workers were another prominent topic. This session highlighted the vital role these individuals play in society.

It investigated ways to improve working conditions and provide better support for those on the front lines. The conversation also addressed issues of fair compensation and safety protocols.

Reimagining Pathways for Returned Citizens

A significant portion of the event was dedicated to returned citizens. This session focused on creating more effective pathways for individuals re-entering society after incarceration.

The discussion encompassed topics like job training, housing assistance, and reducing barriers to employment. The goal was to foster successful reintegration and reduce recidivism.

Ultimately, these sessions underscored the importance of innovation and collaboration in advancing justice and equity for all.