Deliberation by Design: Rebuilding Social Media for Democracy

About this episode

This episode discusses the potential for redesigning social media to foster dialogue and strengthen democracy.

Social media was once celebrated as a tool for connection — but today, it often divides us, amplifying outrage and eroding public trust. In this episode of Let’s Talk Democracy , I speak with Paul Bonifacio , a French tech professional turned social entrepreneur, about the role of platform design in shaping behavior, amplifying extremes, and influencing the health of our democracies. We explore a critical question: Can social media be redesigned to support dialogue instead of division? Together, we discuss what it would look like to build digital spaces that prioritize reflection, accountability, and meaningful human connection. Tune in to rethink the online spaces you inhabit every day and imagine how they could be transformed from engines of division into foundations for democratic renewal. Key Takeaways: Division online isn’t inevitable — it’s designed into the platforms we use. Platform choices shape behavior, amplify extremes, and affect public discourse. Reimagining social media for dialogue, accountability, and connection is possible. Every user can play a role in fostering healthier, more deliberative digital spaces.

People in this episode

Guest: Paul Bonifacio

Topics covered

• social media
• democracy
• platform design
• public trust
• dialogue

Keywords

• outrage
• public discourse
• digital spaces
• accountability
• human connection

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Let’s Talk Democracy

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