Social Media’s Ouroboric Hell

What’s Gone Wrong?

It’s 2023, and the social media landscape appears stuck in a loop. What was once a platform for connection and shared experiences has morphed into an ouroboric cycle. Influencers, keen on amplifying their reach, influence others to seek the same fame. And how do they do it? By advising these aspirants on the art of gathering more followers, thereby gaining more influence in return.

How Did We Get Here?

To understand the current state, it’s essential to look back. Social media platforms initially offered a space for sharing and connection. However, as algorithms began rewarding engagement, the quality of interaction took a backseat. Metrics like followers, likes, and shares became social currency. It was this shift that paved the way for the ouroboric cycle we see today, where value is measured in numbers and not meaningful connections.

What are the Methods?

The mechanics of this ouroboric hell are simple yet devastating. Influencers deploy various strategies to expand their follower base. They then sell this “expertise” to their followers, who are enticed by the promise of achieving similar influencer status. The result? A self-perpetuating cycle.

1. Content Creation: High-quality content attracts followers.
2. Engagement: Reacting and responding to comments and messages boosts one’s visibility.
3. Collaborations: Teaming up with other influencers for shared content exposes one to a wider audience.

Who are the Winners and Losers?

Ironically, the biggest winners in this system are often the platforms themselves, reaping the benefits of high engagement and ad revenue. The influencers, too, enjoy their moments of fame and material gain.

The losers, on the other hand, are many:

• The general public, who are subjected to shallow content.
• Aspiring influencers, who may find themselves spending more than they earn.
• Authenticity and creativity, which become casualties in the race for more followers.

Is There a Way Out?

Breaking free from an ouroboric cycle is no simple feat. But acknowledging the problem is the first step. Future platforms could recalibrate algorithms to reward meaningful interactions over sheer numbers. Users, too, have a role to play by being more discerning in their consumption and support of content.

Final Thoughts

The state of social media has reached an ouroboric impasse. While some manage to turn this into a lucrative opportunity, the repercussions are felt across the board. To move forward, we must reassess the metrics of value and success in the digital realm. Only then can social media return to being a platform for genuine connection, rather than a snake eating its own tail.