TikTok's favorite forager Alexis Nikole discusses her relationship with nature and the foods she wants to pick next. The hosts also delve into the lack of moral education in contemporary society and frustrations with billionaires. They share personal anecdotes about iPhone issues and critique the exploitative nature of 'The Blind Side' movie.
The meanness in American society can be attributed to various factors, including the disillusionment with the American dream, the rise of social media, and the normalizing of exploitative behavior by the wealthy.
Social media plays a significant role in the increase of meanness in society, with anonymity and distance enabling hateful behavior and a culture that rewards outrage and negativity.
The erosion of trust in institutions, economic inequalities, and the growing divide between the wealthy elite and the rest of society contribute to the meanness and lack of consideration in America.
Deep dives
America Has Become Mean and Alienated
According to a piece in The Atlantic by David Brooks, America has become a mean-spirited and alienated society, lacking kindness and consideration towards others. This shift in attitude can be attributed to various factors, including the disillusionment with the American dream, the rise of social media, and the normalizing of exploitative behavior by the wealthy. The current political climate also fuels this meanness, with a growing trend of villainization and an us-versus-them mentality. Overall, the lack of a moral center and a sense of shared values contributes to this growing problem of meanness in American society.
The Impact of Social Media
Social media plays a significant role in the increase of meanness in society. The anonymity and distance it offers allow people to engage in hateful behavior, such as spreading vitriol, misogyny, homophobia, and racism. The culture of social media rewards outrage and negativity, leading to a toxic online environment. This behavior spills into real-life interactions as people become desensitized to the impact of their words and actions. The need for attention and recognition on social media also contributes to this mean-spirited behavior, as people seek engagement and validation through provocative and aggressive content.
The Erosion of Trust in Institutions
A significant factor in the growth of meanness in America is the erosion of trust in institutions. Many Americans were raised to believe that if they work hard and play by the rules, they will achieve a good life. However, as these promises have crumbled and economic inequalities have sharpened, people have become resentful and disillusioned. This resentment fuels a mindset of 'getting mine' at the expense of others, leading to a lack of consideration and kindness. The increasing awareness of the lives and actions of the wealthy elite further exacerbates this meanness, as people witness the blatant disregard for morality and fair treatment. This growing divide between those with power and those without contributes to the toxicity and meanness of society.
The Incentives of Social Media and the Impersonal Nature of Interactions
The incentives of social media, where outrage and negativity often garner attention and engagement, contribute to the meanness in America. People are rewarded for their mean-spirited comments and actions, leading to a culture where being kind is not prioritized. The impersonal nature of online interactions further allows people to engage in meanness without considering the impact on others. This detached environment creates a sense of anonymity where people feel free to express their worst behaviors and attitudes. These factors all combine to create an environment where meanness and incivility thrive.
The Blind Side Allegations
The subject of the film 'The Blind Side' alleges that his adopted family took advantage of his story and made millions of dollars off of it. He claims that they didn't truly adopt him and that he saw very little of the profits. This brings attention to the exploitative nature of movies like 'The Blind Side' that tell a feel-good story without scrutinizing the truth or considering who is profiting from it.
Women's World Cup
The Women's World Cup is currently happening, and it has been the largest and most exciting World Cup yet. With a record number of teams and more out players than ever before, it showcases the talent and dedication of female athletes. The championship game is coming up, and it's a great opportunity to support women in sports and witness some thrilling soccer action.
Erin Ryan and Alyssa Mastromonaco dive into the latest news: racist, sexist, criminal former President Trump got a spicy new indictment from Georgia; menstrual hygiene products are only starting to be tested with blood…now?!; and Hawai'i' needs money. Next, TikTok’s favorite forager Alexis Nikole comes on to talk about her relationship with nature, how her practice has changed over time, and the foods she wants to pick next. Then, Naomi Ekperigin and Tien Tran join to discuss “How America Got Mean,” the latest David Brooks essay in the Atlantic about the lack of moral education in contemporary society — and why he got some stuff wrong! Finally, Sani-Petty (stop telling me to upload to the cloud!).
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