The Perils of Online Exploitation: Has the Internet Made People More Insufferable Offline?

It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by the proliferation of online rants and disagreements. While the internet serves as a powerful tool for sharing and connecting, it has also led to some concerning behaviors that carry over into the offline world. People sometimes forget the importance of maintaining their composure and respect for others, especially during face-to-face interactions.

The Internet’s Impact on Behavior

The internet has indeed made some people more insufferable.

Online debates often spill into the real world, with individuals expressing hot takes and sharp opinions rather than engaging in meaningful conversation. The echo chamber effect can amplify opinions, leading to a sense of invincibility and an inability to understand differing viewpoints. People might lose their true selves, becoming consumed by the need for validation and recognition through social media.

The Myth of a Virtuous Online World

Contrary to popular belief, the internet has not made everyone insufferable. The anonymity and lack of accountability online have allowed individuals to hide behind their screens, often losing touch with their genuine identities.

The Dark Side of Internet Influence

However, the dark side of internet influence is undeniable. Media companies like Facebook and others have the power to manipulate public opinion through various means:

1. Media Manipulation

The manipulation of public perception during times of crisis, such as the 9/11 attacks, serves as a stark example of how media can shape public opinion:

On the 45 days following 9/11, the media created a round-the-clock fear-based atmosphere using various alarm systems, including a “terror scale” from green to red. Within just six days, the government passed the Patriot Act, which allowed for extensive, unwarranted surveillance of citizens, eroding the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.

Under the guise of protecting citizens, the government has essentially turned America into a surveillance state where personal liberties are compromised for the sake of security.

2. Surveillance and Privacy

The implications of widespread surveillance are grave:

Every move, every interaction, and even every phone call is being monitored, reducing the sense of privacy and individual freedom. People are forced to reveal personal information to the government and corporations simply to carry out daily activities.

This shift in society has profound consequences, turning the ideals enshrined in the U.S. Constitution into mere relics: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Conclusion

The internet has undoubtedly made some people more insufferable by fostering an environment of anonymous, uncensored expression. Additionally, the manipulation of public opinion and the erosion of privacy have further contributed to this phenomenon. It is crucial to critically evaluate the role of the internet in our lives and take steps to ensure that it serves to connect and empower us rather than exploit and divide us.