NO More Free Social Networks! Here’s Why You Might Soon Have To Pay

In a recent podcast, Emile Stantina, editorial manager at Cointribune, discussed with the co-founders of Republike, Julien and Étienne, the question of whether social networks should become paid. This conversation highlighted the challenges and opportunities related to the attention economy and monetization of social platforms.

End of Free Social Networks: Will They Become Paid?

Current social networks, especially those based on free models, rely on the attention economy. This means that platforms maximize user connection time to collect data and sell targeted advertising. This model, although effective in generating revenue, has negative consequences, including the polarization of opinions and manipulation of users by sophisticated algorithms.

Republike thus offers an innovative alternative by creating a paid social network where interactions are based on positive intentions and community moderation. To achieve this, the platform offers two innovative concepts which are:

• User owners: this system allows social network members to become shareholders of the platform, which encourages them to maintain and enhance the social environment. 

• The moderation system: it focuses on users’ intentions rather than content, thus promoting respectful and constructive exchanges. 

These mechanisms aim to reduce dependency on the attention economy and create a virtuous engagement model aligned with community values. The idea here is to break free from algorithmic dictatorship and allow users to control their online experience. According to Étienne, this approach could reduce polarization and encourage more constructive discussions.

DIRECT :🎙️"Les réseaux sociaux doivent ils devenir payants ?" à partir de 17h30 avec @republike_io

🗣️Parole d'experts :@de_Sainte_Marie – CEO de Republike@jim_two_jim – Co-fondateur –@CryptoEducStan – CCO de @CointribuneEN et @FRCointelegraph

👉https://t.co/el437gydZ6

— Cointribune (@CoinTribuneFR) October 3, 2024

Towards a Painful Transition?

Making social networks paid remains complex. Although it could reduce dependency on advertising revenues and improve interaction quality, it could unfortunately limit access to platforms for those who cannot afford to pay. However, Emile Stantina pointed out that in the crypto world, where transactions and paid services are common, this transition could be more easily accepted.

In short, the discussion between Cointribune and Republike highlights the need to rethink the economic models of social networks. Whether through paid subscriptions or innovations like those proposed by Republike, the goal is to create healthier and more equitable online spaces. So tell us, would you be willing to pay for your social networks?