Social media is filled with the most interesting and entertaining things. From dances and music to lifestyle and comedy content, you can really find it all. But, there is one thing in particular that lives and thrives on the internet: hot takes.
The term “chronically online” has been gaining a lot of popularity in the last few months, amassing over 150 million views on TikTok. But what exactly does it mean? Many would describe it as being too invested in online discourse to the point where it distorts one’s perception of actuality, including real-life issues. More often than not, discourse surrounds complex topics such as race, gender, mental illnesses and more.
Under the guise of ultra-aware societal commentary, these opinions end up doing more harm than good. What is an attempt to be socially aware on matters turns into a mocking of communities and the issues they face.
For instance, there seems to be a tendency of some comparing hardships faced by multiple marginalized groups with one another, referred to as the “oppression Olympics.” Rather than showing compassion for the set of obstacles faced differently by many, minorities become pitted against each other, and a toxic cycle of regressive behaviour grows. It comes off as performative and ingenuine, two things adding onto what can already be difficult conversations.
Additionally, when these troll-like comments about minority communities gain more attention than actual informative posts, issues that should be in the spotlight end up being cast in the shadows instead. The consequences of this can be dire. Not only would significant inequalities be disregarded, but there is a potential for stereotypes of said communities to be exaggerated.
So the question becomes: if you find yourself indulging in these types of habits, what can you do about it? The simplest solution: GET OFF YOUR PHONE. Surrounding yourself with an echo chamber of content personalized to your consumption patterns through the algorithm only adds to the cycle. Maybe remember that Twitter and TikTok might not always be the best place to get information on important matters. Or that there is a great, big world with all kinds of people beyond the apps on your phone.
On a final note, however, it’s important to acknowledge the term itself comes with negative connotations. Many have critiqued the phrase to be used to target certain individuals by belittling their opinions and invalidating their experiences.
TikTok creator Katriel Nopoulous speaks on the term stating when used derisively, it often targets disabled communities as being online is their way of connecting with the world.
So… does that mean that the expression “chronically online” is, in and of itself, chronically online? Oh God, I really need to get off my phone.
The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.