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In an era where technology connects us more than ever, loneliness and depression continue to rise, leaving many to question the impact of social media on mental health. Buddhist philosophy, rooted in ancient wisdom, may shed light on this growing concern.
In Pāli, the Buddhist language, the term dukkha captures the essence of human dissatisfaction and suffering. According to Buddhist thought, dukkha stems from taṇhā—a term meaning “thirst,” signifying desire, attachment, or craving. These ideas resonate profoundly in today’s social media-driven culture, where craving is woven into the fabric of everyday life.
Social Media and Craving
Social media platforms, intended to foster connection, often exacerbate feelings of isolation. Despite living in the most interconnected global society in history, loneliness has become a pressing public health issue. The World Health Organization highlighted this in 2023, declaring loneliness a global concern.
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok encourage users to seek validation through likes, comments, and shares—mechanisms that amplify the craving for external recognition. This dynamic fosters what some scholars call “comparative craving,” where individuals measure their lives against the polished and curated images of others.
Buddhist philosophy critiques this cycle of craving and externalization. Social media’s emphasis on appearance and perfection perpetuates dissatisfaction. Korean-German philosopher Byung-Chul Han describes this as the “aesthetics of the smooth,” where imperfection is erased, and everything must appear flawless. This focus on unattainable ideals leads to shame, anxiety, and a loss of self-worth.
The Buddhist Perspective
Buddhism teaches that craving stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of reality. Zen philosophy argues that humans perceive the world through a dualistic lens—subject and object, self and other—creating a sense of separation. Social media exacerbates this delusion by further distancing users from authentic connection and reinforcing the illusion of a perfect, permanent self.
Unlike many religions, Buddhism denies the existence of a fixed self, urging followers to embrace impermanence and imperfection. The Buddha taught that the cessation of craving, and therefore suffering, is possible through mindfulness and awakening.
A Path Forward
To address the negative impact of social media, Buddhist philosophy suggests recognizing the platform as an edited reality—a screen that often acts as a barrier rather than a bridge. Accepting impermanence and rejecting the need for external validation can help alleviate the suffering caused by comparative craving.
While achieving nirvana may be beyond most of us, we can still work toward inner peace by acknowledging social media’s influence on our mental health and striving for balance. True contentment lies not in perfection but in embracing life as it is—imperfections and all.
Disclaimer
This article reflects the interpretations of Buddhist philosophy by experts in the field and its potential application to modern issues. It is not intended to replace professional mental health advice. If you are struggling with depression or loneliness, please seek help from a qualified mental health professional.
Provided by The Conversation.
