The UK government recently rejected calls for a blanket ban on social media – and the ancient Cnut’s real lesson is awfully relevant now. There is a lot of noise in the debate right now, mostly focused on the issues around cyberbullying, mental health impacts and the addictive nature of social media platforms. With Australia banning social media for under-16s in recent months, there are now calls for similar moves in the UK and, of course, across Ireland and the EU. Blanket bans haven’t worked on drugs – prescription or prohibited – or alcohol, so why on earth do we think they’ll offer any real help with social media? The problems we face right now with social media are scary, especially due to the risks for young people.

Source: The Irish Times March 19, 2026 14:00 UTC