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?

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, let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or support us at ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/rbtishow⁠⁠

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

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

If you like what you hear, please 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?

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, let us know what else to look into at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or support us at ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/rbtishow⁠⁠⁠

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