Meta A.I. Policy
Last month, Meta (formerly Facebook) made an update to its AI policy, prompting discussions about data ownership and the ethical responsibilities of tech giants. In an article published by The New York Times, Meta emphasized that they own the data users share on their platforms. While this reminder is essential, it also raises questions about the fine print in terms of service agreements.
As someone who has become increasingly wary of tech and social networking, I’ve found myself reducing my online presence. Gone are the days of endless scrolling and constant updates. Instead, I’ve narrowed my focus to marking webcomics and engaging selectively. But why this shift?
1. The Unethical Side of Social Media: Twitter, Facebook, Reddit, and countless other platforms have become notorious for treating users as commodities. They harvest our data for ad revenue, blurring the line between personal expression and profit. As content creators, we’re caught in a bind—forced to compromise because our livelihoods depend on it.
2. The Captains of Humanity: Silicon Valley CEOs often act as if they’re guiding the destiny of humanity. Their decisions shape our digital landscape, yet their priorities don’t always align with user well-being. The relentless monetization of social media activity alienates people, leaving us questioning the true cost of connectivity.
3. Choosing a Path Forward: For me, the answer lies in reducing social media accounts to link-sharing platforms. If I do post artwork, it’ll be fan art—creative expression that doesn’t compromise my integrity. But I wish Meta (and other tech giants) were more ethical. History has shown otherwise, and it’s disheartening.
In the end, we must navigate this digital world with intention. By advocating for ethical practices and making mindful choices, we contribute to a better online environment—one where people matter more than data points.
-Illya
P.S. I’m deleting a lot of content on Instagram. I will be deleting the accounts I use to post my comics.
