Do you recall the term “Me Generation”? Back in the 1970s, amidst protests and iconic styles, there was a culture steeped in self-obsession. Self-help movements surged, pushing people to explore their inner selves to the extent that “navel-gazing” became the go-to phrase to describe such introspection. People were utterly captivated by their own reflections.
Fast forward to 2023, and a new tool has emerged to amplify our self-admiration: the selfie. With a simple tap, anyone can flip their phone camera to snap endless pictures of themselves, and for those looking for an upgrade, selfie sticks are readily available for the perfect shot. This modern twist on navel-gazing bypasses any meaningful self-reflection—it’s simply about capturing “me!” without any deeper thought.
Let’s pause for a moment. Selfies can indeed be enjoyable, and I’m not suggesting we abandon them entirely. They can capture moments of joy, whether you’re in a stunning location or sharing time with loved ones. Recently, my grandma, at 95, took her very first selfie, and it was adorable. “Guess who,” she texted my dad.
See? I can appreciate a good selfie, especially when it features my beloved grandmother. But there’s a broader cultural trend here that has us documenting every moment with photos and videos, and it’s becoming increasingly unsettling.
Concerning Trends in Self-Documentation
Let’s discuss the concerning aspect for a moment. A few years back, a father embarked on a remarkable project, filming his two kids weekly against the same backdrop. By the time his daughter was 12 and his son 9, he compiled these clips into beautiful videos showcasing their growth from babies to young individuals. His motivation was genuine—he wanted to capture memories and foster connections with his children.
Now, consider the shift: a man who documents himself. It’s not about revealing his essence but rather showcasing outfits and accessories. At least he attempted a creative endeavor. In contrast, I witnessed a woman take NINE selfies while waiting in line for coffee—at Starbucks, no less.
What’s worse than mundane? How about depressing? A viral story about a promposal gone awry left me pondering why they felt the need to film their uncomfortable car ride. After recording this cringe-worthy moment, they shared it online, inviting others to share in their discomfort. It circulated widely on social media. At least they used a camera stand, right? Unfortunately, not everyone is taking the same precautions. People are snapping selfies while driving, as if texting and driving wasn’t dangerous enough.
A Global Issue
This is a global issue. Just last year, a driver in Iran lost focus on the road to film herself, leading to a crash. She even uploaded the video. It’s alarming to think that accidents are occurring because of selfies and their uploads.
I suggest we redirect our focus back to what surrounds us. While an occasional selfie can be fun, there’s something truly beautiful about capturing the world through someone else’s perspective. It’s also a far safer option.
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In summary, this new ‘Me Generation’ is not just about self-obsession but also poses potential dangers in our daily lives. While it’s okay to indulge in the occasional selfie, we should remember to appreciate the world around us.