Speaking via webcam at the VivaTech 2024 tech conference in Paris, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and a prominent figure in the tech world, urged parents to limit their children's screen time on social media platforms as a measure to safeguard the morals and values of future generations.
As a father of 11, Musk shared his deep concerns with the audience about the addictive nature of AI algorithms. He emphasized that today's internet technology is designed to exploit dopamine levels in the brain, keeping users, especially children, engaged for extended periods.
"I do worry that kids these days are being trained by social media," said Musk, noting that AI algorithms are specifically engineered to maximize dopamine release. "I would urge parents to limit the amount of social media," he added.
Indeed, dopamine is a chemical in the brain that induces feelings of pleasure and is released when people experience something enjoyable. AI algorithms in social media apps exploit this by presenting content users find interesting or exciting, triggering dopamine releases. This mechanism keeps users scrolling and spending more time online.
Many people, especially parents, resonate with Musk's concerns and have expressed their support in comments on his reposted content from VivaTech on X (formerly Twitter), with one commenter stating, "Good. Children should play outside more, like previous generations."
Furthermore, Musk claimed that his platform offers better online child safety protocols compared to Instagram, a statement that comes in the wake of the European Union's investigation into Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. The investigation focuses on issues such as the "rabbit-hole effects," age verification, and privacy and safety measures. If Meta fails to comply with the stringent requirements set out by the European Union's Digital Services Act (DSA), it could face serious consequences.
Well said, the assertion holds true: AI-driven social media platforms pose significant challenges not only for children but also for us adults. These platforms can exacerbate issues such as addiction, mental health problems, and privacy concerns across all age groups. As we navigate these challenges, we must advocate for responsible usage and promote digital well-being for ourselves and future generations.Â
So, what steps can you take today to ensure the digital well-being of your family?Â
