TED: Let's design social media that drives real change | Wael Ghonim

The speaker reflects on the role of social media in the Egyptian revolution, highlighting its potential and pitfalls. Initially, social media united people for change, but later contributed to societal polarization. The speaker shares personal experiences, including the creation of a pivotal Facebook page and subsequent kidnapping. They identify five critical challenges of social media, such as echo chambers and misinformation, and propose solutions to promote civility and thoughtful engagement. The talk concludes with a call to rethink social media to liberate society.

What was the speaker's initial belief about the Internet's role in society?

• It would only be used for entertainment.

• It could liberate societies.

• It would increase government control.

• It would have no impact.

What event in 2010 significantly changed the speaker's perspective on social media?

• The launch of a new social media platform.

• The death of Khaled Said.

• A viral video about political change.

• A government crackdown on the Internet.

How did the Facebook page 'We are all Khaled Said' impact the Egyptian revolution?

• It only attracted a few followers.

• It was ignored by the public.

• It became a central hub for organizing protests.

• It was shut down by the government immediately.

What personal experience did the speaker face during the revolution?

• He was kidnapped by state security.

• He was elected as a political leader.

• He was awarded a peace prize.

• He moved to another country.

What was the outcome of the Egyptian revolution for the speaker?

• The revolution failed completely.

• Mubarak was forced to step down.

• The Internet was permanently shut down.

• The speaker was exiled.

What negative effects did social media have after the revolution?

• It helped build consensus.

• It spread misinformation and created echo chambers.

• It was used to promote peace.

• It was abandoned by users.

What is one of the critical challenges of social media mentioned by the speaker?

• Difficulty in dealing with rumors.

• Lack of user engagement.

• Too many positive interactions.

• Overabundance of factual information.

What solution does the speaker propose for improving social media?

• Promoting sensational content.

• Increasing the number of advertisements.

• Limiting user access to the Internet.

• Designing platforms that reward thoughtfulness.

What is the focus of the speaker's new project?

• Building a new search engine.

• Creating viral content.

• Hosting conversations that promote mutual understanding.

• Developing new social media games.

According to the speaker, what is necessary to truly liberate society?

• Liberating the Internet.

• More entertainment options.

• More government control.

• Increased censorship.