The Enshittification of the Internet and The Rise of Open Source Alternatives

The internet's initial promise of decentralization and inclusivity has given way to 'enshittification,' where tech giants prioritize profits over user experience. This has led to a more commercialized and lesser-quality online environment. The free and open-source software movement offers an alternative that aligns with the right-to-repair ethos, promoting accessibility and transparency.

In the early days of the internet, anonymity was a given, allowing users to be anyone or find anything. This decentralization empowered voices from all walks of life.

However, marketers found ways to monetize the web, turning it into a commercial fixture dominated by a few tech giants. This phenomenon, termed 'enshittification' by Cory Doctorow, shifted the internet from a user-centric space to one driven by owner profits.

An alternative exists in the free and open-source software movement, which was born from early tech hobbyists who shared code freely. This ethos continues to thrive, advocating for user rights and transparency—a fight that's gaining momentum with movements like right-to-repair.

(With inputs from agencies.)