Musk's Starlink network opens in Amazon tribe, villagers addicted to adult websites, social media gossip
Since September last year, Elon Musk's satellite internet company SpaceX has brought internet access to remote tribes in the Amazon that were previously cut off from the world. The New York Times documented the impact of "internet inclusivity" on these indigenous communities, some of whom used to take a week to reach. These villagers have their own language, consume ayahuasca, and communicate with spirits.
In the post-internet world, while initially people found it convenient to connect with distant relatives, they have now discovered some negative effects.
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The Negative Impact of Internet Inclusion
73-year-old Tsainama Marubo expressed that young people have become lazy due to the internet, and they are learning the ways of the white people. Marubo explained that she does not want to leave the internet, though.
Similar Issues with Modern Families
Marubo stated that teenagers are addicted to gossip-filled social media, meeting strangers online, playing violent video games, falling victim to internet scams, and many minors are exposed to adult content.
Because of the internet, they are also questioning their own identity and cultural representation.
SpaceX: Starlink's 6000 Low-Orbit Satellites
As of June 2024, SpaceX's Starlink satellite constellation has launched 6,571 satellites. The Starlink satellite project aims to provide global internet coverage, with over 6,000 small satellites currently operating in low Earth orbit.
By 2024, Starlink's satellite internet service has covered various regions globally, including nearly the entire United States, most of Europe, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. These areas can receive high-speed internet service via satellite, especially in remote and rural areas that often lack traditional cable or fiber networks.
Uniswap Founder Jokes: Heard Memecoins Are Next
The internet's spread has significantly expanded the potential community for the cryptocurrency community, leading to much discussion within the crypto community.
Uniswap founder Hayden Adams even joked: Heard memecoins are next.
For the vision of blockchain, financial inclusion is also a focus. Previously, play-to-earn (P2E) games have swept through Southeast Asia, providing additional income for various income groups. However, for Amazon tribes, how cryptocurrency can intervene in their economic system and bring positive value remains to be seen.