The Ironic Future: Are We Becoming Machines in the Metaverse?
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The Evolution of Humanity
It seems we are on a trajectory toward becoming more machine than human. Our evolutionary journey is intriguing; we transitioned from primates to humans, and now it appears we might be evolving into emotionless human-machines focused solely on reproduction and relentless labor.
The Roots of My Creativity
Reflecting on my childhood, I recall being quite imaginative. However, as I matured, my creativity waned, likely due to my increasing reliance on technology. Back in the day, I frequently used Facebook, which was booming at the time. As the years passed, I also engaged with Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, all of which became my go-to sources for entertainment.
Unlike my father, who grew up with just a landline, my grandfather struggles with technology; he often spends his retirement gazing at walls, lacking engaging activities.
In contrast, whenever my sister and I find ourselves with free time, our phones become our primary distraction. An endless stream of videos, memes, and content occupies our hours, consuming time we once spent on more meaningful pursuits.
A Shift in Our Attention
We've moved from an era devoid of visual stimuli to one where they are inescapable. For leisure, I often turn to Facebook or Instagram. When I seek a verbal sparring match, Twitter is my platform of choice. And when I simply want to pass the time, YouTube is my sanctuary. Like many, I have a plethora of options that keep me ensnared in this cycle of distraction.
As I inundate myself with stimuli, I find I have little time to confront my own issues. My escape lies in the convenience of my smartphone or laptop, allowing me to sidestep responsibilities and goals, all in the name of entertainment.
Discovering Emotional Depth
After I decided to stop using Instagram and watching porn, I was struck by the depth of emotions I had previously ignored. By reducing visual stimuli, I confronted feelings of emptiness and loneliness. I felt as though I had squandered my life, neglecting meaningful interactions with friends and family. Activities like going for walks or simply spending quality time became rare.
It was only after stepping away from these distractions for a week that I truly grasped the richness of my emotions. This withdrawal also inspired me to write, a means to express feelings that had long been suppressed. Why does this happen? When we are constantly bombarded with stimuli, our emotional awareness diminishes, leaving little room for introspection.
Dealing with Withdrawal
The addiction to our devices can lead to withdrawal symptoms when we attempt to disconnect. I often found myself staring blankly at walls, unable to engage with my thoughts or feelings.
The gradual decline of genuine human interaction is alarming. We're losing touch with what it means to enjoy time with loved ones or to engage in meaningful conversations.
The Impending Reality of the Metaverse
As we inch closer to the realization of the metaverse, we must consider the implications. Will we forsake the joys of the real world? If we continue down this path, our most significant experiences will be virtual, leaving us disconnected from our true selves. Ultimately, we risk becoming mere shells of our former selves, addicted to visual stimuli and unable to live authentically.
The first video titled "AWE EU 2022 Day 1 Creator Track: Creators in the Metaverse" explores how creators navigate the complexities of the metaverse.
In the second video, "The New World of Virtual Reality - Welcome to the Metaverse," we delve into the emerging trends and experiences within the metaverse landscape.
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