What Do People Want? Views on Platforms and the Digital Public Sphere in Eight Countries

Abstract

This report examines public attitudes towards digital platforms in eight countries. It investigates how platforms like social media, search engines, and generative AI influence news consumption, democracy, and societal cohesion. Findings highlight a phenomenon of ‘platform ambivalence,’ where people value platforms for their easy access to information and connectivity but remain sceptical of misinformation, bias, privacy violations, and divisive content. Social media, in particular, is viewed as more divisive than other platforms. The study highlights variations in platform use, trust, and societal impact across demographics and regions, revealing that younger, tech-savvy individuals generally express greater optimism towards different platforms. Despite concerns, platforms are regarded as having net positive effects personally and socially. However, there is a strong preference for platform self-accountability over government regulation in addressing these issues. This comprehensive analysis provides critical insights into the public’s evolving relationship with digital platforms.