Has the internet ruined the Human Identity? – Colin Corby
It promised a world of self-expression and connection. But instead, it’s encouraged us to create performative versions of ourselves; curated by algorithms and validated by likes.
To help us find the reality, we’re joined by Colin Corby, Digital Detox Coach, Technologist, and CEO of Technology Wellbeing.
https://thedigitaldetoxcoach.com
https://www.instagram.com/the_digital_detox_coach
https://www.youtube.com/@thedigitaldetoxcoach
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colincorby
In this episode, Colin joins us to explore the complex relationship between technology and the human identity. We discuss how online personas are curated, the psychological effects of social media, and the role of influencers in shaping self-worth.
We also look the implications of AI on identity, the psychological toll of a permanent online record and the diminishing empathy in digital interactions - ultimately contemplating the future of human identity in a technology-driven world.
00:00 The Impact of the Internet on Human Identity
02:49 Curating Online vs. Offline Selves
05:46 The Psychological Effects of Social Media
08:51 The Role of Influencers in Identity Formation
11:57 The Stress of Online Performance
14:44 AI and the Future of Human Identity
17:46 The Need for Digital Detox
21:00 The Psychological Toll of a Permanent OnlineRecord
24:05 Empathy in the Digital Age
27:00 AI's Role in the Workplace and Identity
30:07 The Future of Human Identity in a Tech-DrivenWorld
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Colin Corby
CEO Technology Wellbeing Ltd
CEO and Founder of Technology Wellbeing Ltd, Speaker, and Digital Detox & Wellbeing expert. He is also a technologist, coach and endurance swimmer and triathlete. Based in the United Kingdom.
Colin created The Digital Detox Coach in 2018 to help individuals and organisations reclaim the time, energy and space for a healthier, more productive and sustainable life with technology.
Colin has over 30 years’ experience in leading technology companies which, together with the mindset of an athlete, he brings to his technology wellbeing practice.
• TEDx speaker "Are We Losing our Human Identity to Technology?"co-presented with Ana Smith,
• As featured on BBC Radio 4’s You and Yours consumer and lifestyle programme in Aug 2025 in a special segment on Commodore Computer and Digital Detox.
• Appeared as a digital detox expert on the BBC Wales X-Ray program in October 2022.
• Author of 'The Digital Detox Guide' on Substack