The Role of Social Media in Shaping Digital Desirability
Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, shaping the way we communicate, access information, and even view ourselves. With the rise of social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, a new standard of beauty and desirability has emerged – the digital standard. In this digital age, our perception of beauty and desirability is no longer solely influenced by traditional media outlets like magazines and television, but also by the carefully curated images and lifestyles of influencers and celebrities on social media. This blog post will explore the role of social media in shaping digital desirability and its impact on our society.
Social media has given individuals the power to create and curate their own personal brand, presenting themselves in a way that is carefully crafted to portray a desirable image. With the use of filters, editing tools, and strategic poses, people can present themselves as flawless and perfect, creating an unattainable standard of beauty. This has fueled a culture of comparison and self-doubt, as individuals strive to meet this digital standard of perfection.
The pressure to conform to this digital standard of beauty and desirability has led to a rise in cosmetic procedures and the use of beauty-enhancing apps. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there has been a 115% increase in cosmetic procedures since 2000, with social media being a contributing factor to this rise. The use of beauty apps, which allow users to edit their appearance in photos, has also become increasingly popular, with over 100 million downloads of the most popular app, Facetune. This further perpetuates the idea that one must present a perfect image on social media to be desirable and accepted.
In addition to influencing our perception of beauty, social media has also shaped our perception of success and status. Influencers on social media often present a lavish and glamorous lifestyle, promoting material possessions and experiences as a symbol of success and desirability. This has led to a phenomenon known as “FOMO” or the fear of missing out, where individuals feel pressure to keep up with the latest trends and experiences in order to be seen as desirable and successful on social media.
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Digital Desirability
The impact of social media on our perception of beauty and success has also had a significant impact on our mental health. Studies have shown a link between social media use and low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. The constant comparison to others on social media and the pressure to present a perfect image can lead to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with oneself. This has become a growing concern, especially among younger generations who have grown up in the era of social media.
However, it is important to note that social media also has the power to challenge and redefine traditional beauty standards. The rise of body positivity and inclusivity movements on social media has allowed for a more diverse representation of beauty. Influencers and users are using their platforms to promote self-love and acceptance, encouraging others to embrace their unique features and imperfections. This has sparked important conversations about the damaging effects of the digital standard of beauty and has brought attention to the need for more diverse and inclusive representation in media.
Current Event: In July 2020, Instagram announced that it will be banning all filters that promote cosmetic surgery on its platform. This decision was made in response to concerns about the impact of these filters on users’ mental health and body image. The filters in question included ones that gave the appearance of lip injections, facelifts, and other surgical procedures. This move by Instagram is a step towards promoting more realistic and diverse beauty standards on the platform and addressing the harmful effects of the digital standard of beauty.
In conclusion, social media has played a significant role in shaping the digital standard of beauty and desirability. The pressure to conform to this standard has led to a rise in cosmetic procedures, the use of beauty-enhancing apps, and negative impacts on mental health. However, social media also has the power to challenge and redefine these standards, promoting inclusivity and diversity. As individuals, it is important to be aware of the influence of social media on our perception of beauty and to strive for self-love and acceptance. As a society, it is crucial to continue to have conversations and take action towards promoting more diverse and realistic beauty standards in media.
Summary:
Social media has become a powerful force in shaping our perception of beauty and desirability. With the rise of platforms like Instagram, a new standard of beauty has emerged – the digital standard. This standard is often unattainable and has led to a culture of comparison and self-doubt. As a result, there has been a rise in cosmetic procedures and the use of beauty-enhancing apps. Social media has also influenced our perception of success and status, leading to a fear of missing out and a negative impact on mental health. However, social media also has the power to challenge and redefine these standards, promoting inclusivity and diversity. As a society, it is important to continue to have conversations and take action towards promoting more diverse and realistic beauty standards in media.