Social Media is Over: What’s Next on the Horizon?

One of the disheartening truths of the 21st century is that what we perceive as social media is essentially just mass media, albeit in a fractured state. Fortunately, journalists and creators are gradually transforming outdated media paradigms and forging ahead into innovative territory.

The phrase “mass media” gained traction in the 1920s to characterize popular culture in the industrial age. This involved mass-produced books, films, and radio shows, providing a shared experience for audiences where many could engage with identical media content simultaneously. Prior to the 20th century, most entertainment was experienced live, with performances varying slightly from one event to the next. However, movies and radio broadcasts ensured uniformity, accessible to everyone at any given time. Just like purchasing standardized products for mass consumption, such as shoes and automobiles.

Social media did not significantly alter this model. Platforms like X, Facebook, and TikTok were designed for extensive reach and audience engagement. Every post, video, and live stream aims to captivate the broadest possible audience. While it is possible to tailor media for specific demographics or create filter bubbles, the fixation on follower counts illustrates that we remain entrenched in a mass media mindset, seeking to engage the largest number of viewers. This isn’t genuine “social” interaction; it’s merely mass-produced content under a different guise.

What if we endeavored to foster a truly social media experience devoid of algorithmic noise or political agendas? One alternative could be termed Cozy Media, which encompasses apps and content specifically crafted for nurturing connections among small groups of friends in serene, inviting settings. Envision the media counterpart of a friendly gathering, complete with card crafting or fireside chats.

The hallmark Cozy Media experience intertwines gaming elements with low-stress missions against charming backdrops. Developers are striving to replicate these cozy aesthetics in social applications. From group discussions to online book clubs, the emphasis is on comfort. Yet, it transcends mere aesthetics; Cozy Media platforms intentionally restrict interactions with random strangers, directing users instead toward trustworthy friends.

One app I’ve been utilizing frequently is Retro. Unlike Instagram, where creators often first gained exposure, Retro is primarily designed for engagement among small circles of trusted friends. There’s no algorithm promoting random content from strangers; when I log into Retro, it feels as though I’m engaging with peers rather than filtering through a deluge of nonsensical content and advertisements. My posts there are meant for a select few, allowing for meaningful interactions rather than shouting into the void of giant algorithms.

While Cozy Media may provide solace in chaotic times, the need for news and analytical perspectives remains. Regrettably, numerous reliable news outlets are facing turmoil. For instance, some American journalists, including those from the Washington Post, New York Times, and National Public Radio, cite dwindling resources and editorial independence.

Additionally, there are economists like Paul Krugman and tech researchers like Molly White, who have successfully launched crowdfunded newsletters. Nonetheless, many journalists prefer not to work alone, as quality reporting often necessitates collaboration. As a result, several have banded together in worker-owned cooperatives to establish new publications while benefiting from institutional resources such as legal support, editing, and camaraderie. This model is also advantageous for consumers, sparing them from the need to search for and subscribe to various individual newsletters just to keep abreast of current affairs.

The worker-owned cooperative model has already proven successful for several publications that have emerged in recent years. For example, 404 Media delivers vital news regarding the fields of technology and science. Defector is another worker-owned cooperative focused on sports and politics. Aftermath covers gaming issues, while Listen to Things specializes in music. Flaming Hydra (my contribution) publishes political analyses, interviews, and cultural critiques. Additionally, Coyote Media aims to launch in the San Francisco Bay Area to cover local news, and there are many other worker-owned local media cooperatives emerging.

Just like mass media, social media also contributes to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The essence of Cozy Media and worker-owned publications lies in the restoration of community and trust. We might be witnessing the dawn of a new information ecosystem aimed at helping us comprehend the world once more.

Annaly’s Week

What I’m reading

The Wonderful History of Mesopotamia by Moudhy Al-Rashid, between two rivers.

What I’m seeing

A new media podcast from former CNN reporter Oliver Darcy titled Power Lines.

What I’m working on

Writing an article for publication at once in Flaming Hydra.

Annalee Newitz is a science journalist and author. Their latest book is Automatic Noodles. They are co-hosts of Hugo Award-winning podcasts, and we are right. You can follow them @annaleen, and their website is techsploitation.com.