Re-decentralizing the Web: The Surprising Benefits of Forgetting

Re-decentralizing the Web: The Surprising Benefits of Forgetting

In today's digital age, the issue of hyper-centralization on the web has become a growing concern. The power that comes with centralizing data and people in the hands of a few has led to a loss of control for individuals. The concept of centralization itself is not inherently problematic, as there are valid reasons for bringing people together. However, when we are deceived into thinking that there is only one access point to a space that we collectively own, our choices are taken away.

One of the consequences of hyper-centralization is the development of filter bubbles. Social media platforms and their algorithms prioritize engagement over diversity, resulting in users being isolated within their own echo chambers. This goes against the true purpose of the web and social media, which is to connect people. It is clear that the obstacles we face in re-decentralizing the web are not purely technological. This is why there is a need for collaboration between various sectors, including business, technology, government, civil society, the arts, and academia, to address the threats to the future of the web.

Interestingly, the idea of forgetting has its own surprising benefits. When we remember everything, it becomes harder to generalize, abstract, and filter information. Forgetting allows us to see unexpected connections among key ideas, fostering creativity. This is why many creative individuals function best in the morning, as the act of forgetting during sleep enables them to make new associations and have eureka moments.

The mechanics of memory in our brains involve three main regions: the save function in the hippocampus, the retrieve function in the prefrontal cortex, and the hard drive towards the back of the brain. Memories are distributed across the cortex, but these central regions play a crucial role in the management of memory. When we remember something, the connections in the posterior area of our brain strengthen, while forgetting occurs when those connections weaken.

Forgetting is essential for our cognitive abilities, as it allows us to generalize and sort information. Imagine if everything in our lives was novel and nothing was familiar. This constant state of novelty would lead to anxiety. Forgetting mechanisms help us avoid perseverating over emotional memories and enable us to let go of the emotional component associated with traumatic events. Socializing after a trauma can accelerate emotional forgetting and aid in the healing process.

Exposure therapy is another example of how forgetting can be beneficial. By associating a previously traumatic event with something benign, the memory is rebalanced, reducing the emotional intensity. Ressentiment, a core aspect of human suffering, often arises from looping on these intense emotional memories. Thus, forgetting plays a crucial role in alleviating human suffering.

In decision-making, forgetting also has its advantages. People with what is commonly referred to as a "bad memory" tend to make better decisions. This is because they are less likely to rely solely on their memories and are more inclined to double-check information and outcomes. Making sure of the facts and considering the unknowns are essential for effective decision-making. The tortoise mind, which takes the time to gather and verify information, often outperforms the hare brain that relies solely on memory.

To re-decentralize the web and harness the benefits of forgetting, we can take actionable steps:

• 1. Advocate for decentralized personal data networks: Push for technological advancements that can scale globally and provide individuals with a better experience than centralized platforms. This requires collaboration between computer scientists, engineers, and other stakeholders.

• 2. Foster diversity and inclusivity online: Encourage algorithms and platforms to prioritize diversity and avoid creating filter bubbles. Connect with individuals who have different perspectives and engage in conversations that challenge your own beliefs.

• 3. Embrace the power of forgetting: Recognize the benefits of forgetting in creativity, decision-making, and emotional well-being. Allow yourself to let go of emotional attachments to traumatic events and actively engage in social networks to accelerate the process of emotional forgetting.

In conclusion, the re-decentralization of the web is crucial to ensuring that individuals have control over their data and online experiences. Simultaneously, embracing the benefits of forgetting can lead to increased creativity, better decision-making, and improved emotional well-being. By combining technological advancements, diversity, and the power of forgetting, we can shape a web that truly connects and empowers every individual.