Social Media Ban: Big Tech's 'Tobacco Moment'
About this episode
The episode discusses the implications of a proposed social media ban for under-16s and the potential responses from big tech companies.
The public is against you, politicians are against you and the emotional argument has been well and truly lost. Which is exactly where the likes of TikTok, Instagram and X find themselves following the Prime Minister's announcement that social media will be banned for under-16s. It's being described by some as big tech's 'tobacco moment'. This week, David and Farzana assess what these companies might do next - how can opinions be shifted, who can be used to make their case? And if stopping the ban outright is not the goal, what would success look like? On the extended edition on BBC Sounds, bricks and mortar PR. Just why are the rich and powerful so obsessed with slapping their names on buildings? As David and Farzana explain, it's a bit like the elite class sending bat signals to one another - 'look how well I'm doing'. Plus, Westminster Abbey's loss is very much Bridlington's gain. David Hockney turned down the offer of being buried alongside kings and queens. Instead, the artist opted for his final resting place to be the East Yorkshire seaside town, alongside his mother and sister. David and Farzana celebrate the wonderful reputational legacy he's left to Brid. Producer…
People in this episode
Hosts: David, Farzana
Topics covered
- social media ban
- big tech
- public opinion
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: TikTok, Instagram, BBC Radio 4
Places: Westminster Abbey, Bridlington
More episodes of When It Hits the Fan
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the When It Hits the Fan podcast page.