I joined Marc Fennell on Download This Show to discuss the Misinformation Bill and the rise of decentralised social media platforms like BlueSky.
It was an engaging and thought-provoking conversation about the challenges and responsibilities of navigating our digital world.
We began by unpacking the Misinformation Bill, a legislation designed to tackle the spread of harmful falsehoods online. While the intention is to create a safer, more truthful digital space, we delved into the tricky balance between combating misinformation and preserving freedom of speech. How do you define “misinformation”? Who gets to decide? And how do we ensure these measures don’t unintentionally stifle legitimate voices? These questions are not easy answers but are crucial as governments and platforms take on this growing issue.
The discussion then shifted to BlueSky, a platform that aims to revolutionise social media by prioritising decentralisation. Unlike traditional platforms, BlueSky offers a model where users have more control over algorithms and data, theoretically reducing the centralised power that amplifies misinformation. It’s an exciting development in the tech world, but it also raises questions about how moderation and accountability will work in such an environment. Can decentralisation truly deliver the transparency and fairness many users crave? Or does it open the door to other challenges?
These conversations hit the heart of what I love about digital strategy and communication: how technology shapes society and vice versa. Our choices now—whether as policymakers, tech leaders, or everyday users—will define the next chapter of our online lives. It’s a fascinating, sometimes frustrating, but undeniably important space to explore.
If you’re curious about the intersection of legislation, technology, and social dynamics, I recommend tuning in. It’s a deep dive into the issues that will shape our digital future—and I’m thrilled to have been part of it.
It’s always a pleasure joining Marc and the Download This Show team, so make sure you’re keeping up with everything they’re doing!