What's Happening?
A new trend on social media is seeing a shift from traditional displays of attractiveness to 'performative intelligence,' where users showcase intellectual activities such as reading. This trend is emerging
as a response to the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and a decline in reading rates. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with content that features books and intellectual discussions, reflecting a cultural shift towards valuing intelligence as a form of social currency. Experts suggest this trend is a reaction to the perceived threat of AI on human intellectual capabilities, as studies indicate a decline in critical thinking skills due to reliance on AI technologies.
Why It's Important?
The rise of 'performative intelligence' on social media highlights a growing cultural tension between the increasing reliance on AI and the value placed on human intellectualism. This trend could influence public perceptions of intelligence and literacy, potentially encouraging more people to engage in intellectual activities. However, it also raises concerns about the authenticity of these displays and whether they genuinely promote intellectual growth or merely serve as a social media aesthetic. The trend underscores the broader societal debate on the impact of AI on human cognition and the importance of maintaining intellectual skills in an increasingly digital world.
