‘Enshittification’: how we got the internet no one asked for

In this episode, the hosts explore the perception that the quality of online services is declining, raising concerns about the changes in major platforms such as Instagram, Amazon, and Google. Cory Doctorow, author of the book titled 'In Shittification', provides insights into this phenomenon. He introduces the term 'inshittification' to describe the process through which platforms that once served users well begin to prioritize profits at the expense of the user experience.

Doctorow outlines three stages of 'inshittification'. In the first stage, platforms attract users by offering desirable services at low or no cost. In the second stage, these platforms begin to prioritize business customers, allowing them to buy their way to the top of search results, often at the expense of the average user’s needs. Finally, in the third stage, users become locked into these platforms as their experiences decline due to the companies' focus on profitability over service quality.

The discussion delves into how users and small businesses find it increasingly difficult to escape these monopolistic platforms due to high switching costs and the lack of viable alternatives. Doctorow emphasizes that systemic problems, rather than individual consumption choices, are the root of the decline, urging listeners to engage in collective action to advocate for more competitive and equitable digital ecosystems.

The episode concludes with a discussion about the potential for a resurgence of a 'good internet' and outlines effective approaches for individuals and collectives to instigate meaningful change in the current digital landscape.