u/hurn2k

I believe it is the single biggest cause of mental suffering. I'm talking about lack of sincerity, being afraid to express yourself or reveal your true feelings, and using ironic and sarcastic humor as cover. People become guarded, avoiding all emotional vulnerability. I think it's largely a product of the internet and social media.

Once you start expressing yourself less, there's a snowball effect, and it becomes almost impossible to show any sincerity. Everything you say has to be some kind of joke, every opinion becomes you hedging your bets, showing that you don't really mean it so there's an easy escape if you're judged for it. Less earnest communication leading to lack of understanding, which can only lead to suffering.

Edit: To clarity I'm talking mostly about self-expression in relationships, ie. telling people what you really think. For example I've noticed people seem unable to compliment or express empathy for others, because it could be seen as performative, or 'cringe', or judged in other ways. So irony is used as a shield. There's deniability, you can say it was just a joke.

I believe it is the single biggest cause of mental suffering. I'm talking about lack of sincerity, being afraid to express yourself or reveal your true feelings, and using ironic and sarcastic humor as cover. People become guarded, avoiding all emotional vulnerability. I think it's largely a product of the internet and social media.

Once you start expressing yourself less, there's a snowball effect, and it becomes almost impossible to show any sincerity. Everything you say has to be some kind of joke, every opinion becomes you hedging your bets, showing that you don't really mean it so there's an easy escape if you're judged for it. Less earnest communication leading to lack of understanding, which only leads to suffering.