Anxiety, alienation, and estrangement in the context of social media

Abstract This article applies Paul Tillich's existentialist analysis of the human predicament, particularly what it means to exist and be fallen, social media. I argue that media heightens feelings alienation estrangement, supporting this claim with evidence from empirical research in psychiatry communication studies. Thus, offer an application a Tillichian approach area culture previously unexamined way. identify three primary ways which exacerbates emotional states: (1) allows us construct artificial versions ourselves through use filters photo editing software; (2) provides quantify approval groups size brain has not evolved for; (3) extends our networks but decreases quality interactions. Social is yet receive significant philosophical or theological engagement despite its prevalence, within younger generations. mistake – philosophy duty engage such ubiquitous feature modern life.