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This week we’re talking about seeking meaning in life. Everyone does this, but how is it different during the age of smartphones, internet search engines, and social media? We will consider that in our episode today.
STORY – People Seeking Meaning and Purpose on Their Smartphones Usually Find Despair Instead
“If you’re looking for purpose or fulfillment on your smartphone, chances are, you’re going to keep searching and searching and searching. A search for meaning on your smartphone or social media can ‘inadvertently exacerbate feelings of despair while simultaneously promising to resolve’ people’s questions, a new study finds.
“Sociology researchers from Baylor University and Campbell University say smartphones provide access to limitless information, which can lead people to mistakenly believe they are actively searching for a higher, ultimate meaning. In reality, however, their endless search is an endgame itself and users are simply feeding into a fruitless technology addiction.
“The researchers say the complex relationship between meaning-seeking and limitless data-finding at people’s fingertips has ties to feelings of unhappiness, depression, suicidal ideation, and loneliness. A Baylor survey about information and communication technology (ICT) devices reveals that people who seek solace or attachment through their phones might in fact find the opposite.” (Study Finds)
Related material:
- Answering Basic Questions (Part 3): What Is the Meaning of Life?
- Our Purpose in Life
- Finding Purpose Amidst the Vanity of Life
- Social Issues (Part 11): Social Media
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