In the aftermath of its whistleblower testimony, Facebook is attempting to repair its reputation, which includes pledges of improvements that will reduce the potential harm to teenagers. According to reports, Facebook Global Affairs VP Nick Clegg stated Instagram will offer a “take a break” feature that would encourage teenagers to just stop using the social network for a short period. Clegg did not specify when it would be ready, but it was obvious that the goal was to eliminate addiction and other harmful behavior.
The social media executive also stated that Facebook will “nudge” teenagers away from the content in its apps that “may not be conducive to their well-being.” He didn’t go into detail about this new strategy. He did, however, recommend that Facebook’s algorithms be “held to account,” even through regulation, if necessary, to ensure that real-world outcomes matched objectives.
Some of the whistleblower’s concerns may be addressed by the new measures.
At the same time, the whistleblower and other critics may be dissatisfied. Breaks and nudges may limit exposure to harmful content, but they do not eradicate it. Clegg’s statements are also consistent with Facebook’s strategy. It prefers to invite regulation, but only the kind it is comfortable with. While the suggested measures may be beneficial, politicians may want more to prevent Facebook from imposing its regulation.
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