What would it mean to log an entire generation off social media and AI?

The nationwide debate is evolving quickly from hypothetical to political reality. 

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After Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew announced plans to make his province the first in Canada to ban social media and AI chatbots for young teens, New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt said her government is also watching the idea closely.

The push follows a federal Liberal Party vote earlier this month to back a resolution that would ban youth under 16 from using social media platforms and AI chatbots.

Supporters of the measure point to mounting concerns about harm. “These technologies have been shown to limit desire for interaction with peers, push some young people into sexual conversations and have even recommended suicide to vulnerable youth,” the resolution states.

If adopted, the proposed law could mirror a similar Australian law passed last year; one that inspired similar proposals in Malaysia, Denmark, France and the UK. 

As policymakers weigh the risks and benefits, Broadview asked four teens under the age of 16: How would you feel about a government-mandated ban on social media and........

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