I think that just having a social media account or owning a smartphone removes the walls of privacy. While it's uncomfortable to think of the deep invasions of privacy that have been taking place in recent years (as seen through extremely targeted ads) I think people should just expect that part of the social contract of having social media means having little to no privacy online. For instance, aside from obvious reasons, I laughed at the notion that "the vaccine will microchip people" and thought it was insanely naive as our phones essentially serve as a microchip, already. It's strange to me that there was huge concern over a microchip tracking people through a vaccine but that there is minimal concern by society and media about the huge invasions of privacy that's been happening for years through our phones and why there's been little to no push (when compared to other issues & initiatives) to implement policy or reform to limit it.

It's interesting to think of the evolution the cyberspace over the last decade, but even more notably over the last year. Pre-COVID the cyberspace facilitated virtual communication and interaction for many gamers and web users alike. However, since remote-life, I've noticed many people trying to equate the cyberspace with reality. I've noticed this through starting remote romantic relationships, virtual work outs, and other activities.

I agree with a lot of what the text is saying, but going back to my last point, I think it's unfair to say that users have as much control over the evolution of digital culture. I think a lot of these platforms are well aware of their impacts on people and are manipulating that desire for connection to draw consumers in to a point of addiction. Reform & regulation would go a long way to make the digital world less toxic and encourage more physical connection.

I watched The Social Dilemma recently which advocates for regulation to be set on data mining and other unethical practices exhibited by modern social media platforms. The documentary emphasizes that individuals online are referred to as "Users"-- a word to describe people who consume drugs and alcohol. While I love social media and the wonderful opportunities that arose from it, I can't shake my thoughts of its all-consuming and addicting nature.