Mar 6 • 14:05 UTC 🇳🇴 Norway Aftenposten

Instagram and TikTok are like drugs. Could they be banned?

The article discusses the addictive nature of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, comparing them to drugs and raising questions about potential bans.

The commentary from Aftenposten highlights the growing concern over the addictive nature of social media platforms, particularly Instagram and TikTok, suggesting that they have become as enticing and harmful as drugs. The author traces the historical context of drug addiction back to the early 19th century when Friedrich Sertürner created morphine, emphasizing how the effects of such substances can lead to dependency and ethical dilemmas surrounding their use.

The article raises a critical question about the responsibility of tech companies, often referred to as 'drug dealers' in the context of social media, in managing their platforms that capture and maintain the attention of users, particularly younger audiences. There's a stark comparison drawn between historical drug usage and modern-day social media behavior, suggesting that just as society has grappled with substance issues, now it must reckon with the pervasive influence of digital platforms.

Ultimately, the commentary suggests that as more people become aware of the 'addictive' qualities of these platforms, a societal reckoning may emerge that prompts discussions about regulation or even banning these applications. The implications of such actions touch on freedom of expression, mental health, and the ethics of digital engagement in contemporary society.

📡 Similar Coverage