Today, Explained
Huge week for the group chat
Mar 28, 2025
Max Reed, a writer for New York Magazine and Substack specializing in internet culture, joins Tatum Hunter, an internet culture reporter at the Washington Post, to dissect group chats and texting etiquette. They dive into the evolution of group chats, spotlighting a viral incident that showcases how casual messages can transform into public spectacles. The duo also discusses the importance of clarity in texting, the rise of private chats, and the unique challenges they bring to interpersonal relationships. Humor and insight abound as they navigate this digital landscape.
28:13
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Quick takeaways
- The shift from public social networks to private group chats highlights the challenges of context collapse and misunderstanding in communication.
- Generational differences in texting styles underscore the necessity for clear intentions and direct conversations to improve digital communication etiquette.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Group Chats
Group chats have become a central part of digital communication, reflecting a shift from public social networks to more private forums for interaction. This transition was influenced by the recognition of 'context collapse,' where personal posts intended for specific audiences became public to unrelated parties, leading to social misunderstandings. As technology and societal norms evolved, many social interactions that used to occur on platforms like Facebook or Twitter migrated to private chats, often resulting in overwhelming numbers of messages and conversations. This pattern has resulted in a mix of formal and informal communication styles, complicating interaction among varied family, friend, and work dynamics.
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