Kathmandu— A federal trial opened in the United States on August 18th, with attorneys general from twenty-nine states taking Meta to court, arguing that its social media platforms are addictive to children and detrimental to their mental health. While this legal challenge focuses specifically on Meta, similar scrutiny is being applied to other tech giants like TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, with congressional hearings already underway involving CEOs such as Mark Zuckerberg and Tim Cook; meanwhile, the European Union is also enacting stricter digital regulations. However, some observers argue that the issue extends beyond online activity, pointing to deeper societal problems and a long-standing trend of cultural shifts.

Beyond Social Media: A Deeper Societal Critique

The author contends that blaming social media platforms for societal ills is a superficial approach, arguing that these platforms merely amplify existing trends. They suggest the roots of current issues lie in decades of cultural propaganda, consumerism, and the erosion of traditional values. Prior to the rise of Meta and other tech companies, similar messages were disseminated through books, schools, political discourse, Hollywood films, and music—promoting themes such as sexual permissiveness, a focus on material possessions, mass immigration, and acceptance of practices like abortion and euthanasia.

A Power Struggle Between States and Tech Giants

The trial is framed as part of a larger power struggle between governments and technology companies. The author suggests that while similar dynamics existed during the Industrial Revolution—with political forces needing to address the growing economic influence of entrepreneurs—the current situation is distinct due to tech giants’ unprecedented control over propaganda and personal data. This creates two potential outcomes: “techno-fascism,” where tech companies are forced to comply with government directives, or a form of “digital capitalist anarcho-totalitarianism” in which politicians become even more subservient to the interests of technology.

The Role of Public Acceptance

Despite regulatory efforts and legal challenges, the author believes that ultimately, the masses will continue to embrace technological advancements. Drawing on the work of French philosopher Jacques Ellul, they argue that modern technology has become an inescapable force in civilization, prioritizing efficiency above all else. This perspective suggests that attempts to control or fundamentally alter the trajectory of technology are likely to be futile, as people have become dependent on it and unable to envision a life without it.

Voluntary Servitude in the Digital Age

Echoing the 16th-century writings of Etienne de la Boetie, the author posits that people willingly accept their own subjugation—but now, not to a government, but to technology itself. The argument suggests that while institutional changes might be attempted, a true shift would require a profound philosophical and spiritual transformation, which appears unlikely given current societal trends.

The trial’s outcome remains uncertain, but the author implies that regardless of the legal result, the underlying issues of technological influence and societal acceptance will persist. The debate over regulating social media platforms is likely to continue alongside ongoing advancements in technology.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.