Ruined By The Internet? | Society, Culture & The Machine

Gareth King
  • 4.0 (8)
  • PHILOSOPHY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Is the internet actually ruining everything, or are we just looking at it wrong? Ruined By The Internet? investigates how technology is shaping society, culture, and modern life - whether we want it to or not. We explore the philosophy and social science of the digital world not as products, but as an environment we all live in. Through conversations with leading experts from across the globe, we examine the evidence to uncover the true casualties of the web. If you wonder “what is this doing to us?” rather than “what does this do?”, follow the show or join us at www.ruinedbytheinternet.com

  1. Ayahuasca: has the internet turned a sacred ritual into commodified tourism? – Bia Labate

    1D AGO

    Ayahuasca: has the internet turned a sacred ritual into commodified tourism? – Bia Labate

    The internet has made ayahuasca more accessible than ever; bringing the promise of spiritual awakening and deep healing to people worldwide. But in doing so, has it commodified a sacred practice, leading to a rise in unqualified facilitators and a disregard for cultural traditions? Joining us is Bia Labate, a Brazilian anthropologist, founder and Executive Director of The Chacruna Institute of Psychedelic Plant Medicines, and one of the world’s leading ayahuasca experts. http://www.bialabate.net https://chacruna.net/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC22F9iOhoGVWPiVlO9ueN0Q/featured https://www.instagram.com/labatebia/ https://chacruna.net/the-commodification-of-ayahuasca-how-can-we-do-better/ In this episode, Bia joins us to explore the profound impact of the internet and social media on the world of ayahuasca. We discuss the accessibility of ayahuasca, the rise of unqualified facilitators, and the ethical challenges of marketing spiritual experiences. We also look at the risks involved in seeking ayahuasca ceremonies and the positive outcomes of increased global interest in this traditional practice, as well as the need for education, harm reduction, and ethical collaboration with indigenous communities to ensure the integrity of ayahuasca experiences. 00:00 Introduction to Ayahuasca and the Internet's Impact 02:51 Personal Experiences with Ayahuasca and Digital Evolution 06:02 The Role of Social Media in Ayahuasca Ceremonies 08:49 Marketing Challenges and Ethical Considerations 11:52 Authenticity and Misrepresentation in Ayahuasca Practices 14:45 The Rise of Unqualified Facilitators 18:00 Navigating Risks in Ayahuasca Ceremonies 21:05 Positive Outcomes of Ayahuasca's Global Exposure 24:10 Future Directions for Ayahuasca Practices 26:48 Advice for Prospective Ayahuasca Participants If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    41 min
  2. Common Ground: has the internet turned a shared reality into an algorithmic battlefield? – Andres Reiljan

    FEB 4

    Common Ground: has the internet turned a shared reality into an algorithmic battlefield? – Andres Reiljan

    The internet promised a place where people from diverse backgrounds could find connection and understanding. But has it instead become a deeply polarised medium where echo chambers and ideological extremism make meaningful connection harder than ever? To help us understand what’s happening, we’re joined by Dr. Andres Reiljan, a political scientist at the European University Institute. https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=uBEitnwAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao https://x.com/AReiljan https://www.facebook.com/andres.reiljan https://bsky.app/profile/areiljan.bsky.social In this episode, Andres joins us to explore the complexities of polarisation in the digital age. We discuss the concept of affective polarisation, the role of algorithms in amplifying divisive sentiments, and the psychological toll of constant exposure to conflict. We also look at the importance of finding common ground and the potential for technology to help bridge divides, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by misinformation and emotional polarisation. 00:00 The Promise and Peril of the Internet 05:04 Understanding Affective Polarisation 09:59 The Role of Algorithms in Polarisation 15:07 Factual Belief Polarisation and Misinformation 19:56 The Impact of Polarisation on Society 25:04 Finding Common Ground in a Polarised World 29:54 The Psychological Toll of Polarisation 35:03 Using Technology to Combat Polarisation If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    39 min
  3. Brand Trust: has the internet replaced true soul with data-driven shape-shifting? – Nick Richtsmeier

    JAN 25

    Brand Trust: has the internet replaced true soul with data-driven shape-shifting? – Nick Richtsmeier

    The internet was supposed to empower brands to build relationships based on authenticity and shared values. But for so many of us, does it now just feel like surveillance capitalism, exploiting and manipulating our attention, leading to mass brand distrust and marketing cynicism? Joining us today is Nick Richtsmeier, a growth consultant and Founder of CultureCraft, who works directly with business and non-profits to solve the issue of trust decay in the marketplace. https://www.damnsgiven.com/https://culturecraft.com/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/2365925 https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickrichtsmeier/ In this episode, Nick joins us to explore the decline of brand trust in the digital age, focusing on the impact of surveillance capitalism, the concept of enshittification, and the role of algorithms in shaping consumer perceptions. We discuss the shift towards community-based growth strategies and the importance of authenticity in marketing, while also addressing the challenges posed by large tech platforms. We also look at the dynamics of social movements, the role of brands in societal change, the challenges of building trust in the digital age, and the importance of human connection amidst the overwhelming influence of technology and the internet. 00:00 The Internet's Impact on Brand Trust 05:03 Understanding Enshittification and Its Effects 10:05 The Role of Algorithms in Brand Perception 15:03 The Shift Towards Community and Authenticity 19:58 Navigating the Future of Business Relationships 24:43 The Ticking Clock of Social Movements 29:00 The Role of Brands in Social Change 35:09 Navigating Trust in the Digital Age 39:55 The Illusion of Internet Trust 46:58 The Human Spirit and Digital Reality If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    50 min
  4. Reputation Management: has the internet turned mistakes into life sentences? – Stuart Thomson

    JAN 14

    Reputation Management: has the internet turned mistakes into life sentences? – Stuart Thomson

    By creating an environment of radically-decentralised authority, has the internet shattered a slow, controlled process, by turning it into a fast, volatile, and potentially permanent crisis cycle? Joining us is Stuart Thomson, a public affairs and political engagement specialist, author, and founder of reputation management consultancy CWE Communications. https://www.cwecommunications.comhttps://publicaffairs.podbean.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@CWECommunications https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/redpolitics/ In this episode, Stuart joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of reputation management in the digital age. We explore how the internet has transformed the speed and nature of reputation crises, the importance of preparedness, and the ethical considerations in public relations. We also look at the challenges posed by AI and misinformation, the dynamics of reputation laundering, and strategies for managing public perception in the face of unexpected crises. 00:00 Introduction to Reputation Management in the Digital Age 02:00 The Impact of Speed on Reputation Management 06:08 Crisis Preparedness and Response Strategies 09:50 The Power Dynamics in Reputation Management 13:59 Handling Unexpected Crises and Public Perception 18:08 The Role of Ethics in Reputation Management 22:03 The Challenges of AI and Misinformation 25:49 Reputation Laundering and Influencer Dynamics 30:00 Identifying Smear Campaigns in the Digital Space 33:02 Final Thoughts on Reputation Management Strategies If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to lookinto at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    35 min
  5. Trust In Information: has the internet broken our ability to trust our own eyes? – Terry Flew

    JAN 4

    Trust In Information: has the internet broken our ability to trust our own eyes? – Terry Flew

    The internet promised a more informed society where anyone could share knowledge freely. However, many people feel it’s led to a crisis of trust where expertise is constantly challenged, and huge numbers of us struggle to discern fact from fiction. Joining us is Terry Flew, a Professor of Digital Communication & Culture, and Co-Director of the Centre for AI, Trust & Governance at The University of Sydney. With Terry’s deep understanding of what’s broken down, we’ll be asking has the internet ruined Trust In Information? https://www.sydney.edu.au/arts/about/our-people/academic-staff/terry-flew.htmlhttps://mediated-trust-arts.sydney.edu.au/programs/time-for-trust-podcast-series/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryflew/ In this episode, Terry joins us to explore how the internet’s various forms impact on our trust in information. We discuss the concept of mediated trust, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the challenges posed by social media and AI in discerning credible information. We also look at the crisis of trust in expertise, the dynamics of media consumption, and the importance of critical thinking in navigating misinformation. 00:00 The Crisis of Trust in the Digital Age 06:01 Understanding Mediated Trust 12:12 The Role of Media in Trust Dynamics 18:09 Social Media vs. Traditional Journalism 24:04 The Impact of AI on Information Trust 30:05 Navigating Misinformation and Building Trust If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    35 min
  6. The Internet: has the internet been hijacked by corporate and government control? – Wouter Constant

    12/21/2025

    The Internet: has the internet been hijacked by corporate and government control? – Wouter Constant

    The internet was supposed to be where the free exchange of knowledge and ideas happened. Instead, it’s become a place increasingly controlled by a few companies, leading to the regular suppression of inconvenient or unpopular ideas. Joining us is Wouter Constant, co-founder and researcher at Nostr, an open protocol for decentralised, censorship-resistant communication. With Wouter’s deep knowledge of how we got here, we’ll be asking has the internet ruined The Internet? https://nostr.com/ https://weboftrustfoundation.com/ In this episode, Wouter joins us to explore the evolution of the internet from its original promise of free expression to its current state dominated by centralised platforms. We discuss the implications of corporate control, government involvement, and the potential for a decentralised future that prioritises freedom of association and censorship resistance. We also look at the evolution of decentralised social media, and its implications for digital responsibility, identity, and content authenticity, as well as the importance of user responsibility in shaping the future of online interactions. 00:00 The Promise of the Internet and Its Decline 02:54 The Rise of Centralised Platforms 05:54 Investment, Network Effects, and the Corporate Sphere 09:00 Government Involvement and Censorship Dynamics 12:02 The Future of the Internet: Decentralisation and Freedom of Association 15:07 Challenges of a Decentralised Internet 18:08 The Responsibility of Platforms and User Experience 27:09 Understanding Responsibility in Digital Spaces 29:44 The Evolution of Decentralised Social Media 32:30 Nostr vs. Bluesky: A Comparative Analysis 35:30 The Role of Identity and Reputation in Nostr 39:16 Decentralisation and Content Authenticity 44:25 Navigating AI-Generated Content in Nostr 50:51 Building a Safer Internet for Future Generations If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    53 min
  7. Truly Disappearing: has the internet’s perpetual surveillance killed the option to escape? – Lachlan Jarvis

    12/11/2025

    Truly Disappearing: has the internet’s perpetual surveillance killed the option to escape? – Lachlan Jarvis

    The internet has given us unprecedented connection, but thanks to relentless data retention and constant tracking of our every digital move, is it now virtually impossible to shed our old identity and start a new life undetected? To help us understand what we’re up against, we’re joined by Lachlan Jarvis, a private investigator, digital forensics expert, and Director of Lyonswood Investigations. https://www.investigators.net.au/ https://x.com/Lyonswood_PI https://www.instagram.com/lyonswoodinvestigations/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/LyonswoodInvestigations https://www.youtube.com/@lyonswoodinvestigations In this episode, Lachlan joins us to look at the implications of the internet on personal identity and privacy. We explore how the digital landscape has evolved, the nature of digital footprints, and the challenges of disappearing in a connected world. We also look at the right to be forgotten, the feasibility of reinventing oneself, and the importance of digital hygiene in protecting personal information. 00:00 The Cost of Digital Identity 03:12 The Evolution of Private Investigation 06:07 Understanding Digital Footprints 09:03 Active vs Passive Digital Footprints 12:13 The Right to be Forgotten 14:59 The Challenges of Disappearing 17:50 The Role of AI in Investigation 20:54 The Feasibility of Reinventing Oneself 24:09 Digital Hygiene and Security 27:08 Identity Theft and Its Consequences 30:00 The Future of Digital Privacy If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    45 min
  8. Social Interaction: has the internet invaded our spaces and damaged our experiences? – Emily Toner

    11/30/2025

    Social Interaction: has the internet invaded our spaces and damaged our experiences? – Emily Toner

    With its constant presence and insatiable demand for attention, has the internet invaded our offline spaces, diminishing our ability to be truly present, and eroding the quality of our in-person experiences? To help us understand the costs of digital distraction, we’re joined by Emily Toner, a clinical psychologist and international expert in the fields of mindfulness, eco-psychology and mental health. https://www.emilytoner.com https://pod.link/1828836798 https://www.instagram.com/emilytoner_ https://www.facebook.com/emilytonerconsulting/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-toner-27413336/ In this episode, Emily joins us to explore the profound effects of the Internet on social interaction and relationships, the importance of social connection for mental and physical health, and the changing definitions of social interaction in the digital age. We also look at the concept of ‘phubbing’, the state of 'doingness' versus 'beingness', the intersection of mental health, technology, and community connections, and the rising anxiety and depression in a tech-driven world. 00:00 The Impact of the Internet on Social Interaction 05:06 The Importance of Social Connection 09:55 Changing Definitions of Social Interaction 14:51 The Distraction of Technology in Social Settings 20:03 Phubbing: The New Social Norm 24:48 The State of Doingness vs. Beingness 28:09 The Importance of Community Connections 35:37 The Impact of Digital Interactions on Relationships 39:22 AI and the Future of Connection 46:25 Practical Strategies for Healthy Social Interactions If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

    51 min
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Is the internet actually ruining everything, or are we just looking at it wrong? Ruined By The Internet? investigates how technology is shaping society, culture, and modern life - whether we want it to or not. We explore the philosophy and social science of the digital world not as products, but as an environment we all live in. Through conversations with leading experts from across the globe, we examine the evidence to uncover the true casualties of the web. If you wonder “what is this doing to us?” rather than “what does this do?”, follow the show or join us at www.ruinedbytheinternet.com

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