When did you start using the Internet? I was already using social networks (Multi-user BBS's and FidoNet) before I even first got onto the Internet in 1988, and then immediately got on to Usenet and IRC for social networking.
1994 with FidoNet access as well but I only interstate dial-up for that. Later in 1997 "proper" Internet access but still dial-up and only allowed to use after mid-night or on the weekends. Nothing compared to today's infinite scroll screens, constant notifications and "the algorithm". Hope that helps to clarify my point.
Yeah late 80s early 90s BBS (terrible name of BATE) was the first thing I ever did on a computer other than my Atary 600XL. Talk to actual people!? Wow!
Then onto IRC where "no flaming" (arguing or trolling) was a strict rule. But 90% of it was people wanting to hookup people asking ASL was every second sentence.
But whatever modern social media is there is something different about it.
I think the biggest differences with modern social media are that 1) it constantly seeks your attention with notifications, and 2) it is trying to make money, so they've spent money on how to keep you addicted.
That's true making money is the big part so there's no incentive to control any of it. We are the product. Our info and habits are more valuable than any ad we click on.
Comments
When did you start using the Internet? I was already using social networks (Multi-user BBS's and FidoNet) before I even first got onto the Internet in 1988, and then immediately got on to Usenet and IRC for social networking.
1994 with FidoNet access as well but I only interstate dial-up for that. Later in 1997 "proper" Internet access but still dial-up and only allowed to use after mid-night or on the weekends. Nothing compared to today's infinite scroll screens, constant notifications and "the algorithm". Hope that helps to clarify my point.
Yeah late 80s early 90s BBS (terrible name of BATE) was the first thing I ever did on a computer other than my Atary 600XL. Talk to actual people!? Wow!
Then onto IRC where "no flaming" (arguing or trolling) was a strict rule. But 90% of it was people wanting to hookup people asking ASL was every second sentence.
But whatever modern social media is there is something different about it.
I think the biggest differences with modern social media are that 1) it constantly seeks your attention with notifications, and 2) it is trying to make money, so they've spent money on how to keep you addicted.
That's true making money is the big part so there's no incentive to control any of it. We are the product. Our info and habits are more valuable than any ad we click on.