Could the next generation of social media users be our own pets?
In short: Computer scientist Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas investigates the potential for an animal-centric internet. By examining how pets and other animals interact with technology, she reveals how giving them control over digital tools might reshape our understanding of their consciousness and social lives.
The concept of a social internet designed for animals is increasingly plausible. Hirskyj-Douglas examines diverse case studies, such as parrots forming online friendships and monkeys selecting their preferred audio tracks. These interactions suggest that technology can serve as a bridge, allowing us to observe animal preferences and social behaviors in unprecedented ways.
Presented at TEDxManchester on March 1, 2025, this exploration challenges the traditional boundaries of human-only digital spaces. By allowing animals to control their own technology, researchers are gaining new insights into the nature of animal consciousness and the potential for non-human digital agency.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: What Happens When Your Dog Uses the Internet | Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas | TED
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