‘We can fix the internet …’ says World Wide Web inventor Tim Berners-Lee

Tim Berners-Lee, the visionary behind the World Wide Web, has expressed deep concerns about the current state of the internet, which he believes strays far from the open and free platform he envisioned in 1989. With approximately 5.5 billion users globally, the web has evolved dramatically and now often appears to prioritize commercial interests over user empowerment. During his appearance at the Dalkey Book Festival, journalist and entrepreneur Mark Little described Berners-Lee's latest book, "This Is for Everyone: The Unfinished Story of the World Wide Web," as a ‘call to arms’ for those passionate about safeguarding and enhancing the internet. The book conveys an urgent message: "We can fix the internet … It’s not too late," reflecting Berners-Lee's commitment to advocating for a more equitable digital landscape. Addressing an audience that included notable figures like Jimmy Wales, Berners-Lee lamented how the internet has morphed into a space dominated by targeted advertising. He pointed out the troubling trend of companies tracking user behavior to deliver personalized ads tailored to individual interests and activities. Berners-Lee emphasized the critical need for individuals to reclaim ownership of their personal data, which has been increasingly commodified by major tech firms. He introduced his initiative, Solid (Social Linked Data), designed to empower users by allowing them to store and control their information while managing access permissions. The discussion also touched on the rise of artificial intelligence, with Berners-Lee cautioning against the growing practice of data collection to fuel AI systems. He posed a provocative question about the true nature of popular virtual assistants, stating, “Does Siri work for you? No, she works for Apple. Does Alexa work for you? No, she works for Amazon.” Reiterating his call for enhanced internet regulations, Berners-Lee warned that the web is at a critical “tipping point,” plagued by increasing disinformation and privacy issues that could further compromise its integrity if left unaddressed.