Slow Internet: A Roadmap to Reclaim the Lost Promise of the Internet by Corin IsmMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
"Slow Internet: Principles and Examples" by Corin Ism and Markus Amalthea Magnusson is a brief book that nontheless delves deep into the aesthetics and philosophy of the online world, offering a fresh perspective on how we interact with the internet. The authors aim to redefine our digital lives by establishing principles for a more thoughtful and sustainable online presence.
What makes this book stand out are the positive and bright solarpunk illustrations that accompany the text, which help to visualize the concepts and make the ideas more accessible. The practical design examples provided are helpful, as they offer concrete ways to further improve human interaction with the digital world.
The authors' perspectives are thought-provoking, challenging readers to think about their personal internet habits and the broader implications of internet governance. The writing style kept me invested, making complex ideas easy to understand and apply.
A book covering such a wide topic raises many questions. Personally, I see the current state of the internet as more resilient and workable, with open source software, blockchain and the rise of the Fediverse as reasons to be optimistic. The decentralized ethos has previously served the internet well and current policy efforts are rather inclined to strengthen centralized platforms. A slower internet might not be synonymous with a better internet.
Overall, "Slow Internet: Principles and Examples" is a good read for anyone interested in improving their online experience, whether on a personal level or thinking within the context of broader societal changes.
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