Media makes me feel human. It makes me feel connected to other humans on the planet, be it complete strangers or the closest of friends.

I see a ridiculous TikTok video and I share a laugh with the thousands of other people who thought it was funny. I go to the cinema to see a movie and I feel the same emotions that the other filmgoers experienced. I stumble upon an online article about a problem I thought only I was experiencing – it gives me a sense of relief knowing that others are facing the same struggles. A friend who lives thousands of miles away posts something about their daily activities – I feel as if I still get to be a part of their life. I get to have a small moment of connection by just sending them an emoji as a response to their Instagram story.

Some people say that media is distancing us from our humanity, but I disagree. I think it adds a new layer of meaning and connection to our lives instead.

If used mindfully, of course…😉

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Published by Life in Media

Website dedicated to the Media Life/Life in Media project of Mark Deuze, Professor of Media Studies, University of Amsterdam (The Netherlands).

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