DigiShift 85: Social Warming with Charles Arthur

Join us for DigiShift 85, where Charles Arthur, acclaimed technology journalist and author of 'Social Warming', will highlight the unseen yet powerful effects of social media on society.

In this session, Charles will explore how platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), and YouTube have inadvertently fueled polarisation, misinformation, and societal divisions. You'll have a unique chance to hear key insights from the book and take part in a Q&A with Charles.

Drawing parallels to global warming, 'Social Warming' illustrates how these platforms gradually inflame tensions, often without users realising the full impact. Charles will also offer insights into the business models driving these dynamics and discuss potential ways to mitigate the damage they cause. You’ll learn about the hidden mechanisms behind everyday interactions on social media and their consequences for democracy, relationships, and public discourse. This thought-provoking session will equip you with a deeper understanding of how we can reshape our digital future, one mindful click at a time. Charles Arthur: With over three decades of experience in journalism and technology, Charles has a unique vantage point on the rise of social media. He’ll share key takeaways from his prescient and gripping book, 'Social Warming', which unpacks the dangers of social platforms and how we can address them to reduce their polarising impact on society.

This session is a unique opportunity to hear about the deeper trends behind social media from a leading tech journalist and acclaimed author.

DigiShift is a collaboration between SCVO and Third Sector Lab, supported by the National Lottery Community Fund (Scotland), The Robertson Trust and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.