Social networks: The scourge of our time
Brain
Today I want to talk about the scourge of our time – social networks. Thanks to their ability to adapt to the interests, temperament and social background of a particular person, they absorb us completely. How does this happen?
The human brain, like the body during physical exercise, consumes enormous amounts of energy during intense work. The body, guided by economy, tries to avoid such expenses, giving signals not to do so. A person does not want to dig a hole, just as he does not want to think much about the task. However, if we overcome ourselves, significant changes occur: muscles grow if we dig a hole, and the brain forms new neural connections when solving problems.
The process of forming new neural connections is called synaptogenesis. This involves the formation of synapses—contacts between neurons through which they transmit signals. Both processes are very energy intensive. How does a person manage to overcome himself? What motivates him?
The hormone oxytocin!
Oxytocin
Oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” plays a key role in reducing stress and increasing feelings of satisfaction. In a physiological sense, it is not addictive like drugs or alcohol. However, in a psychological sense, we can talk about a tendency to behavior that stimulates its repeated release. People seek situations that evoke happiness, love, or affection, such as hugging, kissing, social interactions, or social activities. Of course, oxytocin is released when a hole is dug or a schoolboy has learned a poem.
However, oxytocin is also released when scrolling through social media. We don’t have to exert any effort, but oxytocin is still released. There is no counter force. That’s why social media is so dangerous and captivates us so much.
Clip thinking
Clip thinking is a term that describes the style of information perception characteristic of modern digital society. It is characterized by fragmentation and superficiality of perception, as well as a low ability for long-term concentration. Main aspects of clip thinking:
Fragmentation of information: People consume information in small, short fragments, often without connecting them into a single whole. Examples include short YouTube videos, social media posts, and news headlines.
Low ability to concentrate: Moving from one piece of information to another reduces the ability to concentrate for a long time, making it difficult to comprehend in-depth.
Fast Information Processing: Clip thinking requires rapid processing of information, which can lead to superficial understanding of complex topics.
Impact of technology: The Internet, social networks and digital devices enhance clip thinking. Constantly updating news feeds and notifications on smartphones contribute to a constant shift in attention.
Critical Thinking: Decreased ability to concentrate and analyze deeply can negatively impact critical thinking and informed decision making.
Scientific research shows that clip thinking has both positive and negative consequences. On the one hand, people quickly adapt to changing conditions and quickly process information. On the other hand, superficial perception of information can lead to insufficient understanding of complex topics and a decrease in the ability to solve problems.
And, of course, for a full life without understanding complex topics, artificial intelligence comes to our aid. We may be witnessing the birth of a new biological species of humans. Whether this is good or bad, life will tell.
Here. It hurt – he spoke out. Got a dose of oxytocin.