Jon Greenaway, aka litcritguy, is a theorist and horror expert known for his work on unsettling media. He discusses the creepy allure of bizarre food videos that gained popularity during the pandemic, exploring their psychological impact and connections to online engagement. Katie Notopoulos from Business Insider reflects on the lost art of personalizing social profiles, comparing it to the whimsical MySpace days. Together, they dissect how modern social media has shifted user identity and interaction, leaving nostalgia in its wake.
The rise of platforms like Blue Sky highlights users' demand for healthier online interactions while moving away from toxic environments on existing networks.
The acquisition of InfoWars by The Onion raises ethical concerns about media ownership and the intersection of humor with serious sociopolitical issues.
Deep dives
The Rise of Blue Sky and User Dynamics
Following the recent presidential election, there has been a substantial increase in users flocking to the social media platform Blue Sky, with its user base expanding by about one million daily. Unique features such as a customizable non-algorithmic feed and the innovative 'Nuclear block' allow users to completely banish unwanted interactions, offering a stark contrast to the existing norms seen in platforms like X. This shift is reflective of a broader societal discontent with toxicity online, leading many to leave platforms like Threads and X in search of a healthier discourse environment. The fractured landscape of social media suggests a growing desire among users for exclusionary spaces where they can engage free from trolls and harassment.
The Onion's Controversial Acquisition
The Onion's acquisition of InfoWars has sparked significant discussion, particularly due to its ties with Alex Jones and the subsequent complications involving bankruptcy proceedings. The purchase, which was meant to combine humorous commentary with serious undertones surrounding tragic events, poses questions about the ethical implications of ownership over contentious content, including Jones's social media presence. A judge's intervention to halt the auction highlights the complexities in the legality and ethics of media ownership, especially in relation to sensitive historical events like the Sandy Hook tragedy. This situation underscores how humor and satire intersect with serious sociopolitical issues in the current media landscape.
The Evolution of Profile Customization on Social Media
The transition from an era of personalized social media profiles, as exemplified by MySpace, to the homogenized format of platforms like Facebook represents a significant shift in user expression. Early social networks allowed extensive customization, enabling users to create unique digital identities, but recent platforms have limited options to ensure safety and ease of use. This gravitation toward standardized profiles has rendered social interaction less about individual expression and more about consuming algorithm-driven content feeds. However, there is a growing movement among users seeking to reclaim personalization, advocating for a return to more unique and creative self-expression online.
The Disturbing Phenomenon of Food Gore Videos
Food gore videos, which combine grotesque culinary creations with horror film aesthetics, expose viewers to a visceral blend of disgust and fascination. These viral clips often employ shocking visual elements that mimic horror movie tropes, designed to captivate audiences and elicit strong reactions. Renowned content creators like Rick Lax have capitalized on this trend, manipulating social media algorithms to enhance viewer engagement through outrage and shock value. As the internet evolves, the traditional appeal of food gore faces competition from AI-generated content, raising concerns about the authenticity and exploitation inherent in modern digital entertainment.
Mike talks with Jon Greenaway, aka litcritguy, about the horror of online food videos; Georgia talks with Katie Notopoulos about why you can’t personalize your social profiles a la MySpace anymore; ALSO leaf crunches!
