

Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid
51 snips Apr 12, 2022
In this engaging conversation, social psychology professor Jonathan Haidt, known for his works on moral reasoning, delves into the alarming impact of social media on American life. He argues that platforms intended for connection have instead amplified division and undermined democracy. Haidt discusses the evolution of online discourse since the introduction of the 'like' button, the importance of viewpoint diversity, and the psychological effects of public criticism. He proposes thoughtful solutions to navigate these challenges and restore meaningful communication.
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Shift to Performance
- Social media shifted from connection to performance after the introduction of the like and retweet buttons in 2009.
- This change amplified anger and outrage, leading to a decline in thoughtful engagement.
Campus Outrage
- College campuses became centers of outrage in 2014.
- Students protested Halloween costumes and racial politics, causing disruptions and fear among faculty.
Institutional Shifts
- Three elements changed institutional dynamics: weaponized empathy, the rise of HR as an ideological weapon, and the global reach of individual voices.
- These changes created an environment of fear and self-censorship.