Technologie ist keine Naturgewalt (feat. Aline Blankertz)
Summary
In this episode of Never Content, host Arlene discusses the concept of digital sovereignty with guest Malte Engler, co-author of "Digitale Souveränität." They explore how to overcome capitalist tech structures and AI by envisioning a more decentralized, community-driven internet. The conversation highlights the limitations of tech-solutionism, the need for political engagement in digital design, and the role of unions and NGOs in challenging monopolies. Arlene and Malte argue that while decentralized platforms like Mastodon offer alternatives, they must be integrated into broader political …
Topics discussed
Intro: Defining the biggest problem with the internet
Vision for a better internet and the limits of Mastodon
Addictive design and the 'Heroin vs. Banana' comparison
Server selection, onboarding, and political decision-making
Technology as a political issue and the role of parties
EU regulations and the lack of social movements
The absence of digital NGOs and lobbying groups
The 'just code it yourself' fallacy and representation
The role of unions and the Tech Workers Coalition
Taking responsibility and offering alternative platforms
Platform reach, monetization, and user bubbles
ActivityPub, Fediverse, and the value of content
Innovation, corporate bias, and breaking the logic
Housing platforms, natural monopolies, and municipal solutions
Small communities, Reddit, and the benefits of decentralization
Toxic communities, moderation, and human judgment
Why people stay on big platforms and the scaling problem
Capitalism, democracy, and the reality of monopolies
University research, public funding, and professional autonomy
Federation, utopian visions, and the need for connection
The importance of physical spaces and offline interaction
Friendship, static profiles, and the limits of online discourse
Monocultures, left-wing criticism, and interpreting intent
Creating spaces for respectful political discussion
Notes of Resistance, local activism, and closing remarks
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