Part 9/11:
Addressing the supposed “better times” before 2016, the speakers argue that political hostility has always existed. They contend that today’s outrage is amplified by social media algorithms designed to maximize engagement—feeding users a constant stream of negativity and fear, creating a collective sense of impending doom.
The Fear and Anxiety of the Modern Age
A recurring theme is society’s rising anxiety about the future. One person describes feeling overwhelmed by images of societal collapse and fear of chaos, which is attributed to algorithms fueling paranoia. Meanwhile, a provocative TikTok user openly declares war on Republicans, framing their political opposition as enemies deserving violence. This extremity highlights how digital echo chambers can foster dangerous sentiments.