The UK prime minister, Keir Starmer, has announced a social media ban for under-16s, as part of an online safety drive that aims to go even further than the world's first ban, introduced by Australia last year.
Mixed Reactions to the Proposal
Many parents have welcomed the proposals, but scientists have pointed to the lack of strong evidence for the efficacy of bans. Some campaigners have argued that the proposal allows social media companies to avoid making meaningful changes on their platforms.
Exploring the Evidence
Ian Sample is joined by co-host Madeleine Finlay to explore what the evidence indicates about the harms of social media and the impact of banning it outright. The discussion delves into the complexities of online safety and the potential consequences of such a ban.
Support the Guardian for more in-depth science journalism.
