Maven: a social network without likes or followers

What would social networks be without Likes and Followers? This is the model proposed by Maven, which presents itself as the social network of Serendipity, meaning a social network based on "chance".

It's no secret that social networks are overflowing with negative, anxiety-provoking content. This is hardly surprising, given that the way they operate, based on the attention economy and the culture of clash, a far cry from complex thought, encourages it. But a new social network, backed by some of Silicon Valley's biggest names, is hoping to change all that."Discover a chance network built on shared ideas, not subscribers or influencers. Join lively discussions, discover new passions and connect with other enthusiasts without the pressure of follower numbers. Experience a social networking revolution that celebrates and prioritizes the diverse interests and perspectives of its users. Maven: where serendipitous connections develop, interests shape your network and connections are truly meaningful." In short: free yourself from the shackles of the audience race.

With the Maven social network: amplify ideas, not popularity

Kenneth Stanley (OpenAI researcher and Maven CEO) and his co-founders - Blas Moros and Jimmy Secretan - launched Maven at the end of January 2024. The platform abandons Likes, follower counts and algorithms in favor of exploring new ideas in a fluid, original way. How does it work? Thanks to an "open" artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm designed to encourage serendipity. At the heart of Maven's reactor, an algorithm that seeks to connect each user with publications likely to interest and enrich them.

A risky gamble when you consider that, conversely, the most popular social networks - Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X - prioritize the search for likes and are optimized to maximize engagement and advertising revenues. Even if this means prioritizing the visibility of sensationalist, even racy content, thus fostering a culture of clash. According to Stanley, the notion of "serendipity" is diametrically opposed to that of objectives. So, rather than chasing followers, Likes and other indices of popularity, Maven proposes to be surprised by the unexpected. "Our concept is simple but powerful: interests, not influencers. Maven is based on the belief that relationships between people should revolve around their true passions and ideas rather than the number of followers." In other words, move away from the audience race and focus on real connections.

How does the Maven social network work?

When registering, users select a range of topics to follow, from neuroscience to parenting. Thealgorithm then pushes them publications that match their interests. There are no likes, upvotes, retweets or follows, let alone any way of amplifying the content to the general public. When users post on a topic, the platform's AI analyzes it, tags it and delivers that content not to the person's subscribers (remember: they don't have any), but to a community of users who have also expressed interest in that topic. From there, users can engage in dialogue without worrying about whether their publications will be appreciated. What's more, Maven uses a "content discovery" filter that lets users decide whether they want to see content focused solely on their favorite topics, or whether they're open to related subjects. So if, for example, you follow conversations about urban planning, Maven can also suggest conversations about public transport.

Users can also disable topics that don't interest them, and report other users' posts if they find them abusive. Stanley assures us that the AI actively monitors content that is highly inflammatory, offensive "or worse". While Maven's CEO is realistic and knows that his platform won't be able to "remedy the nastiness of human nature" by removing incentives to share such content, he hopes to change the "global dynamic of how people behave."

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The Maven social network philosophy

The addictive qualities of social media, the detrimental effects on the mental health of adolescents and adults, and their ability to polarize nations are well documented. According to Stanley, these are the unintended consequences of the fact that popularity is an indicator of quality. In many ways, Maven appears to be an antidote to today's social media, where the "objective paradox is in full view", where large numbers of users are caught up in a frantic race for attention and popularity. But at what cost?

Will Maven be able to expand its user base without the toxic qualities we love to hate, but which nonetheless lead us back into the cesspool that is social networking? The question remains open. Indeed, Maven's idealistic hope of connecting people to interesting ideas is reminiscent of the early 2000s, when the Internet was a place of connection and exploration. To date, the sentiments of the platform's early adopters are mostly positive and optimistic. Many have come in search of authentic, serendipitous interactions and the promised absence of toxicity. But will idealism be enough to attract more investors when Maven wants to expand? Stanley is confident: "I just need to find the right investors to move forward and quickly achieve a sustainable business model". In particular, the entrepreneur is considering a subscription model that would enable Maven to keep its ideology intact. Of course, there are other ways for Maven to generate revenue. Advertising is one. An option that appeals less to Stanley because of its link with virality and sensationalism.

To help it realize its vision, the company has the support of influential people. The social network has already raised $2 million in 2023 from some of the biggest names in Silicon Valley. These include Twitter co-founder Evan Williams and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. According to Stanley, they all share the same project and want to move away from current models: "Echo chambers, toxicity, narcissism amplification and personal branding have gotten out of hand, to the point where people are losing their souls and turning into brands." Although Maven will need to raise additional funds over the next few months if it is to survive and hope to compete with the established behemoths, the support of these Silicon Valley heavyweights should prove invaluable.

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