The internet, once celebrated for its potential to connect and empower, has significantly deteriorated, according to tech blogger and author Cory Doctorow. In his new book, titled Enshittification, Doctorow discusses this decline during an interview with host Faisal Al Yafai on the podcast The Lede.
Doctorow reflects on his initial experiences with technology, stating, “For a lot of us, our journey into tech is that we used computers, and it changed our lives for the better.” He emphasizes how the internet facilitated personal connections and opportunities that transformed lives. However, he argues that the current landscape is marred by the actions of major technology companies, which he believes have compromised user experience and, in some instances, posed serious dangers.
Power Dynamics in Technology
A striking example Doctorow cites is the removal of the app ICE Block by Apple. This application was designed to alert users in the United States about the presence of immigration and customs officials in their neighborhoods. Doctorow criticizes this move, stating, “You can’t run the app that tells you when ICE is in your neighborhood trying to kidnap you.” He underscores the troubling reality that large tech firms wield excessive power, often at the expense of their users.
Moreover, Doctorow highlights a disconnect between profit motives and product reliability. He points to Apple’s opposition to “right to repair” legislation, which seeks to make devices like iPhones easier to repair. He explains, “Apple led that coalition to make sure that you just didn’t keep your iPhone working.” This illustrates a broader concern about how corporate interests can hinder consumer rights and product longevity.
Flawed Incentives and Future Risks
Doctorow expresses concern regarding the incentive structures within major tech companies. He argues that the current environment allows them to operate without adequate consequences for harmful practices. “The reason they can be as wicked as they are and still run the company is because we have an enshittogenic policy environment,” he states. This implies that the systems in place reward negative behavior rather than punishing it.
As for the trajectory of technological advancements, Doctorow shares apprehensions about artificial intelligence (AI). He believes that the risks associated with AI are often misunderstood. Rather than fearing AI’s potential for domination, he warns that companies may undermine its effectiveness by replacing skilled workers with algorithms that cannot perform the necessary tasks. “I think we’re going to screw up AI by firing a bunch of people and replacing them with an algorithm that can’t do their job,” he suggests.
The conversation concluded with Doctorow advocating for a fundamental reevaluation of how technology companies operate. He calls for a shift toward practices that prioritize user experience and societal benefits over short-term profits.
In summary, Cory Doctorow’s insights shed light on the complexities of today’s digital landscape. His examination of corporate practices highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform in the technology sector, urging a collective effort to improve the internet for future generations. The full interview can be accessed through various platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Podbean.
