The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

If I had to choose a piece of technology I’d be better off without, it would undoubtedly be mobile phones—more specifically, the social media apps that now dominate them. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok have transformed what was once a tool for connection into a breeding ground for constant validation-seeking and societal unrest.

Let’s face it, social media is not normal. It’s like a digital casino, triggering the same reward pathways in your brain as gambling. Every like, follow, or share feels like hitting the jackpot, but the cost is far more insidious. It’s eroded our attention spans, created a culture obsessed with appearances, and turned human interaction into a transaction of shallow dopamine hits.

Take Instagram, for instance. It’s no longer just about sharing photos—it’s a battleground of curated perfection, where everyone’s life looks better than yours. And don’t even get me started on TikTok, with its endless scroll of bite-sized entertainment that’s so addictive it makes Netflix binges look tame.

But the most worrying aspect of social media is how it’s poisoned political discourse. Platforms like X have turned debates into digital gladiator pits, where nuance is sacrificed for the sharpest clapback. Instead of encouraging meaningful discussions, these apps amplify the loudest, most toxic voices. It’s like handing everyone a megaphone and watching chaos ensue.

What’s worse is the way this technology has messed with our sense of reality. It’s blurred the lines between what’s true and what’s performative. We’re constantly comparing ourselves to others, scrolling through filtered snapshots of lives that may not even be real. And as a result, we’ve become more anxious, more divided, and, ironically, less connected.

Of course, it’s not all doom and gloom. Mobile phones themselves are brilliant tools when used wisely. They’ve revolutionised the way we work, learn, and stay in touch with loved ones. But when social media takes centre stage, it’s like giving a child a Ferrari and hoping they don’t crash.

Imagine a life without this constant noise. A life where we’re more present, more grounded, and less consumed by the opinions of strangers. Where political conversations happen face-to-face, with the kind of respect that’s so often absent online. It’s a vision worth striving for, even if it means taking a step back from the apps that have woven themselves into the fabric of our lives.

So, would I be better off without mobile social media? Absolutely. And maybe, society would be too.