Big Tech’s grip on social media is a growing problem | CNN Business

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the concentration of power in the social media landscape, particularly the dominance of Meta (Facebook, Instagram, Threads, WhatsApp) and the potential harms it can create. It highlights a recent incident where Meta blocked links from a nonprofit newspaper and an independent journalist, raising concerns about censorship and the lack of transparency around such actions.

🙋 Q&A

[01] The Meta-verse

1. What are the key issues highlighted in the article regarding the concentration of power in social media?

• The article highlights that the concentration of digital ownership under a single trillion-dollar company like Meta can create real-world harm, as seen in the recent censorship dispute.
• It notes that Meta's control over the most popular social media platforms means that major publishers cannot ignore it, and its actions can significantly impact the credibility and reach of media outlets.
• The article also points out that there are limited competitors to keep Meta accountable, and the reliance of media on Meta's platforms creates a power imbalance.

2. What are the different perspectives on whether breaking up Meta would solve the problems with social media?

• The article notes that some argue breaking up Meta would not necessarily solve the biggest problems with social media, such as the perpetuation of misinformation, negative impact on teen mental health, and the creation of toxic echo chambers.
• It also mentions that others argue that breaking up Meta or stronger regulations are needed to prevent the company from elbowing out other competitors in the market.

3. What are the key questions that remain unanswered about the incident where Meta blocked links from the Kansas Reflector and an independent journalist?

• The article states that the reasons for the "security issue" that led to the blocking of the links are unclear, and Meta did not provide a detailed explanation.
• It also notes that the Reflector staff and the journalist, Marisa Kabas, were left with many unanswered questions about what caused the links to be blocked and the lack of transparency from Meta.

[02] Concentration of Power in Social Media

1. How does the article describe the impact of Meta's control over the social media ecosystem?

• The article states that Meta's control over a significant portion of the social media landscape means there are limited competitors to keep the company accountable.
• It also notes that all media outlets rely on Meta's platforms to reach their audience, giving the company significant power over the distribution and visibility of content.

2. What are the potential risks and harms highlighted in the article regarding the concentration of power in social media?

• The article suggests that the concentration of power in the hands of a single for-profit business like Meta can generate profound risks for society as a whole, including issues around censorship, transparency, and the ability to hold the company accountable.
• It also mentions concerns about Meta's ability to dramatically reduce referral traffic to media outlets, which can have significant real-world impacts.