A Puppeteer Controlling the Crowd
I can remember going to watch “guignol” in France when I grew up, the equivalent to “Punch and Judy” in the UK. We all booed at the baddies and clapped when the big stick came out and they were whacked away. In these shows, good always triumphed over bad and we all went home feeling safe and happy.
However, online social media algorithms work like a puppet master pulling the strings of millions of people without them realizing of the consequences.
They subtly manipulate emotions, thoughts, and behaviors by deciding what content to show—whether it’s encouraging unhealthy beauty standards, promoting extreme political views, or fueling unrealistic lifestyles. Just like a skilled puppeteer, they make people feel in control, while in reality, they are being nudged, shaped, and influenced without their full awareness.
Where’s Punch?
Photo by Sivani Bandaru
