October 16th, 2024

Be Using an RSS Reader

Cory Doctorow advocates for using RSS readers to improve online privacy and control, arguing that collective action is needed to combat systemic issues caused by major platforms and their algorithms.

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Be Using an RSS Reader

Cory Doctorow emphasizes the importance of using RSS readers to enhance one's internet experience and combat the negative effects of major platforms, which he refers to as "enshittification." He argues that individual actions, like recycling, have minimal impact on systemic issues, and instead advocates for collective movements. RSS readers allow users to access content from various sources without the interference of ads or tracking, providing a more private and user-controlled experience. Doctorow highlights that RSS feeds are available for a wide range of content, including news articles, blogs, and social media updates, enabling users to curate their own information streams. By using RSS, individuals can bypass the algorithms of social media platforms, regain control over their digital consumption, and contribute to a healthier internet ecosystem. He encourages readers to adopt RSS as a means to improve their online interactions and support content creators without compromising their privacy.

- RSS readers enhance online privacy and control over content consumption.

- Individual actions are less effective against systemic issues; collective movements are necessary.

- RSS feeds are available for various content types, including news, blogs, and social media.

- Using RSS can help mitigate the negative effects of major platforms on the internet.

- Switching to RSS is easy and allows for seamless migration between different readers.

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By @t-3 - 3 months
This is one of the reasons I still use Seamonkey - it has an RSS reader built in (among many, many other features). The nostalgic Netscape Navigator UI is also better than the crazy user-hostile designs that Firefox and Chrome use nowadays too.