Wednesday, February, 19,2025

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GENERATION – Z & CLOUT CULTURE

Generation Z, also known as Gen Z-ers and Zoomers, is born between 1997 and 2012. It has succeeded the millennials and preceded the Generation Alpha. Gen Z, comprising roughly 20% of the world’s population, is the digitally native generation as it has grown up in a world where social media - Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, LinkedIn, Facebook, Reddit, Twitter (now renamed X) - is an integral part of daily life. This generation has been shaped by the rapid evolution of technology and the proliferation of social media platforms. Resultantly, Gen Z’s relationship with social media is complex, multifaceted and distinctly different from previous generations. About 94% of Gen Z is highly active on social media, spending hours scrolling through feeds, creating and sharing online viral content and interacting with friends and influencers.

Gen Z’s impeccable digital skills have made them a generation with unprecedented influence and fame has become their coveted goal. Social media platforms serve as gateways to recognition, influence, and what we now call “clout.” Clout culture among Gen Z refers to the social influence one has, particularly in online spaces. It is about gaining recognition through accumulating followers, creating viral content, or being seen as an authority in a specific field. This culture of having a significant number of followers, or creating trending content, translates into having “clout.” In a recent study, it has emerged that 86% of the people aged 13 to 38 aspire to become social media influencers.

There are different types of influencers and content creators who can be placed in categories according to their reach. Nano-influencers have 1k-10k followers who have garnered a small but loyal audience in one niche or another. Microinfluencers have about 10k-50k followers attracting audience because of their content. Mid-tier influencers have 50k-100k followers. Macro-influencers have between 100k-1M followers. These influencers are smaller celebrities, who create content full time. Mega-influencers are the largest types of influencers and have over 1 million followers, such as, Charli D’Amelio, Amber Rose, Kyle Jenner, Selena Gomez, Deepika Padukone, Zach King, etc.

However, it is important to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of social media and the dark side of the clout culture. The pursuit of clout isn’t always virtuous. Social media influencers exploit societal vulnerabilities or sensationalize sensitive topics for attention. Being an influencer often undermines other career paths because influencers vie with each other for “fifteen seconds of fame.” Concisely, Gen Z’s fascination with clout reveals both the allure of influence and the pitfalls of chasing fame. Remember, clout isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact. Its impact on mental health is multifaceted. Gaining recognition and influence can boost self-esteem but pursuit of clout often leads to anxiety. Fear of losing followers or relevance can be overwhelming. Social media fosters constant comparison. Seeing others’ success can also trigger feelings of inadequacy. Clout seekers rely on likes and comments for validation and when these metrics fluctuate, it affects their self-esteem. We know that clout attracts both admirers and trolls. Negative comments do harm their mental well-being.

A global trend is emerging to control social media use. Vivek Ramaswamy, set to lead the Department of Government Efficiency under the Trump Administration, supports proposals limiting social media access for teens under 16 to improve mental health and combat the digital fentanyl epidemic. In the US, the Social Media Child Protection Bill, 2023 seeks to block children under 16 from using social media and mandates age verification, though it hasn’t been passed into law yet. Recently, the Australian Parliament passed the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act, 2024, banning children under 16 from using social media. Other countries have proposed similar bans with varying age limits and conditions. For instance, France proposes a ban for children under 15, with parental consent allowing an exception. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) introduced comprehensive restrictions in August 2023. Children under 8 years old are allowed to use smart devices for only 40 minutes a day. Those aged 8-15 can use them for up to an hour a day. Only age-appropriate content is allowed. Minors are prohibited from accessing the internet on mobile devices from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

In Germany, the Protection of Young Persons Act and the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media regulate media consumption by minors. Platforms must implement age verification and parental consent for minors. Platforms are required to provide age-appropriate content.

In India, there will not be age-gating for children to join social media platforms but those under 18 years of age will require verifiable parental consent before joining the platform. Draft rules of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, released by the IT Ministry last week have termed entities, collecting and using personal data, as data fiduciaries. These include social media, e-commerce and gaming platforms. However, there is no provision to check children from joining social media by giving false date of birth. Draft rules are open for public comments now. To mitigate the impact of clout culture, users should prioritize well-being over popularity, focus on genuine content, set time limits, and explore hobbies beyond social media. If affected, professional help should be sought. Educating younger generations on healthy social media use, integrating digital literacy into curriculums, and promoting influencers who prioritize authenticity are key. Open dialogues on social media’s impact should be encouraged. These measures foster a safer online environment, ensuring social media benefits users. Healthy social media use begins with informed choices!

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Shrawan Sawhney, The writer is IAS (Retd.)

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Daily Astro

19-02-2025

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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19-02-2025