Reddit Founder Alexis Ohanian Claims Internet Has Lost Its Human Touch
Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian has expressed concerns about the current state of the internet, describing it as less human and increasingly artificial.
Increasing Automation on the Internet
In a recent appearance on the TBPN podcast, Ohanian discussed the shift from genuine human connections online to what he calls a more “botted” experience. This change is reflected by a rise in automated or AI-generated content across various platforms.
The Rise of “Dead Internet Theory”
Ohanian spoke about the “dead internet theory,” which suggests that bot activity now surpasses human interaction on the web. He believes this is evident in the proliferation of automated content, such as AI-generated posts and “LinkedIn slop.”
Future of Social Media
According to Ohanian, the future lies in social media platforms that prioritize real people and live interactions. He emphasized the need for an internet that features more human-centered experiences, requiring platforms to prove the presence of live users to capture attention.
- Focus on verifiable human interactions.
- Create spaces for authentic communication.
- Encourage live content and participation.
Embrace of Smaller, Private Spaces
As larger platforms become dominated by non-human activity, users are gravitating towards smaller and more private spaces like Signal and Discord. These platforms offer a chance for more genuine and human-centered interactions.
Seeking the Next Evolution
While group chats are popular for real-time conversations, Ohanian believes a new iteration is necessary. He points out that even if current private spaces aren’t novel technology, they reflect the demand for authentic interactions and trusted information sources.
Industry Reactions
The “dead internet theory” has gained traction among tech leaders, illustrating concerns about the authenticity of online interactions. In September, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman acknowledged the prevalence of LLM-run accounts, signaling a broader acknowledgment of this issue.
As technology evolves, Ohanian’s insights call attention to the need for a balance between innovation and preserving the internet’s human touch.
