As you scroll through the internet, you’ve probably noticed the same problem Kirby Ferguson has: “Everything looks the same, sounds the same, is the same.” In the Opinion Video above, the filmmaker argues that our culture often appears to be plagued by a dearth of creativity. But what if, beneath the surface of mainstream culture, there was a world of wild imagination waiting to be discovered — if only a powerful force would stop suppressing it?
Algorithmic Suppression of Creativity
🤖Algorithms on social media platforms are suppressing creativity by amplifying mainstream content and creating a "creative stagnation" amidst a "creative surplus".
🎨Beneath the surface of mainstream culture, there's a thriving world of creativity waiting to be discovered, but it's being hidden by algorithmic curation.
Fostering Creativity
🌳To nurture creativity, engage with "private communities" like the "dark forest internet", subscribe to less-curated newsletters and podcasts, and use decentralized platforms like the "fediverse".
Historical Patterns of Creative Resurgence
🌟Historical examples like the Northern European Renaissance and the Harlem Renaissance suggest that periods of turmoil often precede significant creative eruptions.
Empowering Change
💪Users have the power to demand better amplification of creative content and challenge the dominance of algorithmic curation in shaping mainstream culture.