The present form of social media is not some neutral expression of “human nature.” It is the product of platforms designed under capitalist ownership to maximize engagement, advertising exposure, data extraction, and retention. That means the most emotionally provocative, addictive, rage-inducing, insecurity-producing content gets structurally rewarded because it keeps people scrolling.
Yes, adolescent minds are more vulnerable. Yes, social comparison can damage self-worth, especially among girls. But that does not refute my point; it supports it. Instagram does not simply “show girls images.” It ranks, recommends, amplifies, tests, optimizes, and monetizes content through engagement systems designed to put forth the most inflammatory emotionally charged content possible (bodydysmorphia tier influencers followed directly by weight loss drug ads).
Also scare mongering about “evil CCP surveillance” is fucking silly. Our government listens to and is accountable to us unlike your digital overlords.
The present form of social media is not some neutral expression of “human nature.” It is the product of platforms designed under capitalist ownership to maximize engagement, advertising exposure, data extraction, and retention. That means the most emotionally provocative, addictive, rage-inducing, insecurity-producing content gets structurally rewarded because it keeps people scrolling.
Yes, adolescent minds are more vulnerable. Yes, social comparison can damage self-worth, especially among girls. But that does not refute my point; it supports it. Instagram does not simply “show girls images.” It ranks, recommends, amplifies, tests, optimizes, and monetizes content through engagement systems designed to put forth the most inflammatory emotionally charged content possible (bodydysmorphia tier influencers followed directly by weight loss drug ads).
Also scare mongering about “evil CCP surveillance” is fucking silly. Our government listens to and is accountable to us unlike your digital overlords.