Posted on: January 5, 2025, 10:53 am
I’ve been seeing talk of the Dead Internet Theory again, and I wanted to provide some insight since the internet is, in a way, my domain by profession.
The theory basically suggests that most people have abandoned the internet and been replaced by AI bots. In my view, what people are actually observing and feeling is a shift. People have moved on from mainstream social media apps, while AI has taken up residence on those older platforms.
Where did everyone go?
To more intimate and private digital spaces. This could mean a private Discord group instead of an old-school forum on a website, or group messaging on their phones instead of Facebook.
So, I believe the Dead Internet Theory is simply a reflection of a shift away from the traditional hangout spots of the last 10-15 years.