Ruined By The Internet?

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

Is the internet really 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. Decentralisation: has the internet locked a reach for freedom into a clinch with central power? – Joseph Kennedy

    2D AGO

    Decentralisation: has the internet locked a reach for freedom into a clinch with central power? – Joseph Kennedy

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ The internet promised to be an escape from centralised power. But thanks to the domination of Big Tech and Venture Capital, has the dream of a user-controlled, peer-to-peer network been systematically stolen by a new set of gatekeepers? Joining us is Joseph Kennedy, Head of Marketing & Growth at blockchain platform Alephium. http://www.alephium.org http://www.twitter.com/bigpepghost https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephkennedyuk/ In this episode, Joseph joins us to explore the evolution of decentralisation in the internet age, particularly focusing on the impact of big tech and venture capital on the original ideals of blockchain technology. We discuss the rise and fall of cryptocurrencies, the role of centralised exchanges, public perception of Web3, and the influence of government regulation. We also look at the future of decentralisation, the risks posed by centralisation, and the potential for self-regulation within the crypto space. 00:00 The Promise of Decentralization and Its Erosion 02:50 The Role of Venture Capital in Crypto 06:11 Centralization vs. Decentralization: The Infrastructure Dilemma 08:57 Public Perception of Crypto and Web3 12:11 The Influence of Regulation on Decentralized Innovations 15:08 Corporate Involvement in Web3: A Double-Edged Sword 17:52 NFTs: Beyond the Hype and Towards Utility 20:50 Value Perception in the Digital Asset Space 23:07 The Rise and Fall of Steemit 28:08 Centralization vs. Decentralization: The Ethical Dilemma 30:29 Self-Regulation in the Decentralized Space 33:18 Government Control and the Decentralized Response 37:50 Barriers to Mass Adoption of Decentralization 40:12 The Future of Decentralization: A Divided Landscape 42:55 A Vision for True Decentralization #Web3 #DigitalSovereignty #BigTech #internet #technology #society #culture

    47 min
  2. Deeper Connection: has the internet replaced human intimacy with digital interface? – Maria-Elena Lukeides

    MAR 1

    Deeper Connection: has the internet replaced human intimacy with digital interface? – Maria-Elena Lukeides

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The internet brought connectivity unlike anything we’d ever experienced. But by making so much of our communication instant and effortless, has it actually eroded everything we need to truly connect with each other? Helping us examine how the digital world affects our ability to connect with people is Maria-Elena Lukeides, a clinical psychologist specialising in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapies, drawing on neuroscience, behavioural design, and evolutionary psychology. https://www.drmariaelenalukeides.com.au https://www.instagram.com/drmariaelena_lukeides/ http://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-elena-lukeides-270379a5 In this episode, Maria-Elena joins us to examine the impact of the internet and social media on human connection. We explore how digital communication has changed the nature of relationships, the illusion of connection in a hyper-connected world, the addictive nature of dopamine-driven validation, and the importance of oxytocin for deeper connections. We also look at the neuroscience behind social interactions, the dangers of AI in fostering isolation, and the importance of patience and vulnerability in building meaningful relationships. 00:00 The Impact of the Internet on Human Connection 02:34 The Illusion of Connection in a Digital Age 06:03 The Depth of Communication: Online vs. Offline 10:37 The Erosion of Patience in Relationships 13:30 The Challenge of Unpleasant Emotions 17:14 Dopamine vs. Oxytocin: The Chemistry of Connection 20:53 The Quest for Meaningful Relationships in a Fast-Paced World 24:17 The Impact of Digital Communication on Real-Life Connections 28:23 AI as a Substitute for Human Connection 33:43 The Challenges of Modern Relationships 38:07 Strategies for Building Resilience in Relationships 41:00 Exploring Psychedelic Therapy and Connection

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

    FEB 16

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

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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

    41 min
  4. 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

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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

    39 min
  5. 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

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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

    50 min
  6. 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

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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

    35 min
  7. 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

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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

    35 min
  8. 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

    Welcome to Ruined By The Internet? - the show where we examine how technology is shaping modern life - whether we want it to or not. Follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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

    53 min
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About

Is the internet really 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

Information

  • Creator
    Gareth King
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Gareth King
  • Show Website
    Ruined By The Internet?

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