Manifesting the Future, Battling Brain Rot: Words of the Year 2024
Each year, the Words of the Year selected by renowned dictionaries capture the zeitgeist, reflecting evolving language trends and societal preoccupations. In 2024, Cambridge Dictionary chose “Manifest”, spotlighting the rise of manifesting—a self-help practice of visualizing goals to achieve them. Meanwhile, the Oxford Word of the Year, “Brain Rot”, humorously critiques the digital age’s overconsumption of trivial online content. This blog is a Sunday reading activity assigned by Barad Sir, based on these words. You can check out his blog here - Brain Rot and Manifest
Brain Rot
“Brain rot” refers to the perceived mental decline caused by overconsuming trivial or low-value online content. Popular among Gen Z, it humorously critiques the addictive and mindless nature of some internet content, such as viral memes and TikTok videos. The term gained traction in 2024, reflecting societal concerns over the digital age’s impact on mental health. It saw a 230% increase in usage from 2023 to 2024, with discussions extending into journalism and mental health advocacy. The phrase was first recorded in 1854 in Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden,” where he used it to criticize intellectual decline. In 2024, it became a humorous yet serious metaphor for the effects of internet culture.
You an read more about it on the official Oxford website - Word of the Year: Brain Rot
(Image generated by Meta AI)
The passive consumption of social media content has become an almost universal habit in today’s digital age. Advanced algorithms employed by platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, etc. are designed to curate highly personalized feeds, making the content almost irresistible to users. However, the convenience and allure of such consumption come with significant side effects, including the erosion of attention spans, declining academic focus, and an alarming rise in mental health concerns.
I’ve personally experienced this phenomenon of “brain rot.” There have been countless times when I’ve opened Instagram with the intention of a quick scroll, only to lose an hour or even two, mindlessly flicking through reels and posts. When I finally manage to pull myself away, it feels as though my brain is in a fog, unable to process or think clearly. The vibrant images, rapid cuts, and endless stream of content leave my mind overstimulated yet oddly depleted, as if the ability to focus has been temporarily stolen.
To know more about Brain Rot, you can check out this video -
Manifest
“Manifest” gained popularity due to the global trend of manifesting—believing that visualizing one’s goals can make them more achievable. While rooted in a century-old spiritual philosophy, the word has been heavily used on social media platforms like TikTok, symbolizing self-help and goal-setting trends. Celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Gabby Thomas referenced manifesting success, boosting its use. The word was looked up nearly 130,000 times on the Cambridge Dictionary website in 2024. Psychologists warn against the pseudoscientific nature of manifesting, emphasizing its risks, such as promoting unrealistic expectations.
You can check out more details on the official website of Cambridge University - Word of the Year: Manifest
The rise of “manifest” reflects a widespread fascination with magical thinking particularly in uncertain times. Emerging from a century-old spiritual philosophy, manifesting gained mainstream traction on social media, with billions engaging with #manifest posts. Its appeal lies in its optimism and accessibility, providing a sense of control in a chaotic world. While manifesting promotes goal-setting and self-belief, its pseudoscientific roots raise concerns. Critics warn that it may foster unrealistic expectations, undermine practical problem-solving, or perpetuate the idea that success is solely a matter of mindset.
The concept of manifestation has gained immense popularity in recent years, deeply resonating with individuals seeking control and comfort in an unpredictable world. Books like ‘The Secret’ by Rhonda Byrne and ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho emphasize the power of visualization and positive thinking in achieving one’s dreams. For me, Shah Rukh Khan’s famous dialogue from ‘Om Shanti Om’, embodies the essence of manifestation.
This surge in belief is particularly noticeable during the New Year season. Lately, my Instagram feed overflows with vision boards— a manifestation technique where people visually map out their aspirations for the coming year. The practice, rooted in the idea that positive thinking can shape reality, provides a deep sense of hope and comfort. In a fast-paced, often chaotic world, it serves as a mental anchor, encouraging people to dream big and maintain a positive outlook.
However, it is crucial to balance optimism with practicality. The simple truth is that no goal can be achieved without actionable steps. Visualization may spark motivation, but success ultimately depends on consistent effort, planning, and perseverance. Without these, manifestation can lead to unrealistic expectations and inevitable disappointment.
Conclusion
The Words of the Year for 2024 “Manifest” and “Brain Rot”, perfectly encapsulate the duality of modern existence. On one hand, “Manifest” reflects an enduring optimism, offering individuals a sense of control and hope amidst uncertainty. On the other, “Brain Rot” serves as a humorous yet cautionary critique of the digital age, highlighting the mental toll of excessive online consumption. Together, they reveal our collective struggle to navigate a rapidly changing world, balancing aspiration with realism and connectivity with mindfulness. As we move forward, these terms remind us to dream boldly but live consciously.
Words - 972
Images - 6
Videos - 2
References -
Barad, Dilip. Thinking Activity: Exploring the Words of the Year 2024 | Brain Rot and Manifest. 13 December 2024, https://blog.dilipbarad.com/2024/12/brain-rot-and-manifest.html. Accessed 14 December 2024.
“'Brain rot' named Oxford Word of the Year 2024.” Oxford University Press, 2 December 2024, https://corp.oup.com/news/brain-rot-named-oxford-word-of-the-year-2024/. Accessed 15 December 2024.
Cambridge. 'Manifest' is Cambridge Dictionary's Word of the Year 2024. https://www.cambridge.org/news-and-insights/word-of-the-year-2024 . Accessed 14 December 2024.
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