The internet has become deeply integrated into human lives, evolving from a risky investment to a necessity through smartphones and algorithms that personalize user experiences. However, instead of fostering community and love, the internet often generates alienation and disconnection. Social media algorithms tend to reward negative behaviors, leading to a culture of trolling and outrage. Participation on these platforms can be exhausting, and passive engagement can mask the reality that users' data is harvested for profit, illustrating the concept of 'enshittification' as described by Cory Doctorow.
As the internet has become more integrated in our daily lives, few would describe it as a place of love, compassion, and cooperation.
Study after study describe how social media platforms promote alienation and disconnection-in part because many algorithms reward behaviors like trolling, cyberbullying, and outrage.
Whether it's spending hours filming content for TikTok or a few minutes crafting a thoughtful Reddit comment, participating on these platforms takes work.
Passive engagement, like scrolling through feeds and 'lurking' in forums, consumes time. It might feel like free entertainment-until people recognize they are the product.
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