Digital future: Let’s stand up to the giants of the internet!

Hey, guys! Have you ever considered how incredibly powerful large online platforms are these days? At re:publica in Berlin, some of the brightest minds explored how we can tame these digital giants. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and the like influence us every day – and mostly unnoticed. 🙈 But as always, where there are risks, there are also opportunities!

🎓 Attention as a valuable asset

Researcher Philipp Lorenz-Spreen of the Technical University of Dresden had some fascinating thoughts on this. Essentially, we aren't the customers of these platforms, but rather the products. Our attention is traded like a commodity, and the big names in the industry profit from it. That's kind of creepy, isn't it? But this is precisely where Lorenz-Spreen applies his leverage: If we understand that attention is the internet's capital, we can influence it in a targeted manner. 💡

🔍 The attention economy in the digital age

In today's digital world, much revolves around user attention. Companies use this to target advertising and thus increase their revenue. Search engine optimization (SEO) and content marketing are just some of the strategies used to increase online visibility and capture user attention. It's important to be aware of this dynamic and understand how our online activities are monetized.

Opportunities for Europe 🌍

I find the perspective Lorenz-Spreen sees for Europe particularly exciting. While digital platforms and political power are closely intertwined in the US, we still have a window of opportunity here to play the game by our own rules. 🕹️ We need to act now, before someone else does! Europe has the opportunity to gain a stronger position in the global digital market through its own digital strategies and regulations. Initiatives such as the European Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act aim to create a level playing field and curb the power of big tech companies.

Local alternatives: Welcome to the neighborhood 🏡

Have you heard of "Molo News"? Leipzig-based researchers developed it as a local alternative to the US giants. It offers a classic news feed—but with a twist: the focus is entirely on local news and events. The city of Markkleeberg is already implementing it and is receiving great feedback. Local clubs, local news—cool, right? ✨ If this alternative is successful, it could serve as a model for many other cities in Germany.

• Advantages of local platforms:
  • Promoting the community
  • Better control over local content
  • Strengthening the local economy
• Examples of successful local platforms:
  • Markkleeberg News
  • Hamburg Local
  • Berlin News

By supporting local platforms, we can create a more diverse media landscape and reduce dependence on global giants.

Decentralized Networks: Power to the People 💪

But there's more! Decentralized networks like Mastodon or Bluesky offer marginalized groups in particular an opportunity to initiate real discussions and demand a voice. 🚀 These platforms in particular could become increasingly important, especially in our time. They allow users to retain control over their data and offer greater transparency and security than centralized platforms.

• Advantages of decentralized networks:
  • Data control remains with the user
  • Less censored content
  • Increased security and data protection
• Well-known decentralized platforms:

Decentralized networks promote more open and inclusive communication by reducing barriers to access and supporting diversity of opinions.

Kid Danger! 🚨

Now, let's be honest: Are you aware of the risks associated with TikTok, especially for kids? Numerous critical voices warn of potential dangers for children and young people. 🤔 These include access to inappropriate content, data protection issues, and the risk of cyberbullying. Parents should therefore pay more attention to protecting their children and take appropriate security measures.

• Main dangers of TikTok for children:
  • Uncontrolled access to content
  • Data breaches
  • Cyberbullying and online harassment
• Protective measures for parents:
  • Limit usage times
  • Sharing the account
  • Raise awareness of data protection guidelines

It is crucial that parents and guardians are aware of the risks and take proactive steps to protect their children online.

Shaping the future: Our role in the digital world

Ultimately, the question remains: What can we do? The future is in our hands—and by wisely leveraging new digital opportunities that prioritize data protection and have a local impact, we can truly make a difference. ✌️

• Strategies for a positive digital future:
  • Promoting local and decentralized platforms
  • Strengthening data protection and data security
  • Education and awareness about digital media
• Our responsibility:
  • Conscious use of social media
  • Supporting fair and transparent platforms
  • Engagement in digital communities

Stay alert and informed! By actively engaging with the challenges and opportunities of the digital world, we can create a fairer and more sustainable online landscape.