Exploring the Words of the Year 2024 | Brain Rot and Manifest

Exploring the Words of the Year 2024 | Brain Rot and Manifest

Hi there, readers This blog is designed to serve as a contemplative exercise to examine the 2024 Words of the Year, "Brain Rot" and "Manifest." I hope to answer challenging queries on these terms and their meaning in our lives through my blog. Both phrases are fascinating, both for their deeper meanings and for the way they sound. Come along with me as we explore their applicability and resonance in modern society. For further you can check out this blog link. CLICK HERE.

Oxford Word of the Year: "Brain Rot" :-

"Brain rot," which was selected by a public election procedure, is the Oxford Word of the Year 2024. The phrase refers to the perceived mental or intellectual deterioration brought on by excessive intake of unimportant or undemanding content; it is frequently connected to the deluge of low-quality content that is readily available online, especially via social media and smartphones. It draws attention to a social issue about the impact of digital content on critical thinking and cognitive engagement.

Cambridge Word of the Year: "Manifest" :-

"Manifest," the 2024 Cambridge Word of the Year, reflects the word's changing usage and cultural significance over time. The term became well-known due to its connection to social media fads such as manifesting wishes or success, which is based on the idea that visualising objectives might aid in their accomplishment. Although this method has become more popular, especially during the epidemic, experts warn against its pseudoscientific foundations and compare it to the established advantages of goal-setting and optimistic thinking.

The language history of the term "manifest" is extensive. It was first used in the 14th century to denote "obvious" or "easily noticed," but in the 19th century, it was extended into political contexts such as "manifest destiny" in America. These days, it might imply anything from authoring political manifestos to clearly illustrating or proving something. For further Click Here . 

Analysis :-

Q.1 What are the social, cultural, or psychological contexts behind the selection of these words?

A.1. Distinct social, cultural, and psychological factors influencing modern discourse are reflected in both terms. After celebrities including singer Dua Lipa, Olympic sprinter Gabby Thomas, and England striker Ollie Watkins talked about manifesting their success in 2024, the term went from being used in the self-help community and on social media to being extensively utilised in mainstream media and beyond. The historical relevance of the term 'manifest', including its origins in philosophical and political concepts such as "manifest destiny," relates to current debates concerning ambition, agency, and social advancement. The urge to restore control over living conditions is reflected in the post-pandemic manifesto, which also resonates with a societal movement towards introspection and the search for meaning in difficult times.

Brain rot demonstrates how people are becoming more conscious of how excessive computer use affects mental health, particularly in younger generations. It explains how excessive use of social media and poor-quality information can lead to cognitive deterioration and distraction. This word is in line with movements to support digital detox and well-being and reflects societal criticisms of contemporary technology and the psychological effects of a hyperconnected environment. The casual, meme-driven character of modern communication, which frequently use comedy to tackle weighty subjects, is further highlighted by its informal tone.

Manifest represents hope, optimism, and a proactive strategy for reaching objectives. Conversely, brain rot is a reflection of weariness, anxiety, and the cognitive overload that many people experience in this information-rich age. The cultural conflicts between rising self-empowerment and the dangers of technology innovation are reflected in these statements. While Brain Rot offers a dual perspective on humanity's adaptive and maladaptive behaviours in reaction to societal pressures, Manifest offers a solution to problems, while Brain Rot threatens the very instruments that rule modern life.

Q.2 How do these words resonate with your personal experiences or observations of contemporary society?

A.2. The Search for Mastery amid Uncertainty The concept of "manifesting" is in line with the post-pandemic zeitgeist, in which many people looked for methods to regain control over their lives during uncertain times. Journaling, vision boards, and affirmations practices based on the idea that positive visualisation may produce real change have become more popular, based on my observations of those around me. Though not always supported by science, the idea inspires hope and proactive goal-setting, which is why I find it empowering.

I've seen the "manifesting" trend grow into a cultural phenomenon on social media sites like Instagram and TikTok, which frequently gives members a feeling of purpose and community. But it also calls into question privilege because success is frequently achieved at the expense of structural obstacles that many people encounter, which resonates with current social discussions about accessibility and merit. The term "brain rot" accurately describes the cognitive fatigue that many people, including myself, feel after spending a lot of time in front of a screen. The widespread use of digital devices, from binge-watching to doomscrolling, creates a sense of mental congestion and detachment from reality. I have observed that social media platforms frequently cause users to feel alone or overburdened, which adds to the condition known as "brain rot." The irony of overstimulation causing cognitive numbness a recurrent subject in discussions on digital well-being is hilariously yet sharply reflected in the word.

These remarks highlight a larger conflict in modern life: the manifest desire for advancement and the negative effects of excessive technology use (brain rot). This, in my opinion, is representative of a generation attempting to balance the advantages and disadvantages of living in a hyperconnected society.

Q.3. In what ways do these words influence or reflect the way we think, communicate, and interact?

A.3. The word "manifest" encourages people to emphasise self-belief and intentionality, which can help them develop a more optimistic and goal-oriented mindset. This supports the notion that ideas and beliefs have the power to influence reality and is consistent with current self-help and mindfulness movements. It affects how people interpret problems, causing them to move from accepting them passively to actively seeking change. On the other hand, "brain rot" makes people consider the drawbacks of digital consumption and critically examine how technology impacts creativity and cognition. It effectively conveys the annoyance and self-awareness that many people have due to their dependence on digital media. 

These words also influence how we discuss our experiences with other people. "Manifest" has emerged as a catchphrase in online forums, encouraging camaraderie among people who have similar aspirations and advancements. It establishes a common language of empowerment and hope. "Brain rot" provides an amusing yet serious approach to talk about burnout and digital fatigue. By giving voice to common struggles, it promotes empathy and facilitates connections between people who are experiencing mental overload. Essentially, the terms "manifest" and "brain rot" reflect and influence current discourse, acting as instruments for individual expression as well as group comprehension in a world that is undergoing fast change and facing interrelated problems.

For Further Reading :-

Heaton, Benedict. “‘brain Rot’ Named Oxford Word of the Year 2024.” Oxford University Press, 2 Dec. 2024, https://corp.oup.com/news/brain-rot-named-oxford-word-of-the-year-2024/. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024. 

“‘manifest’ Is Cambridge Dictionary Word of the Year.” “Manifest” Is Cambridge Dictionary Word of the Year | University of Cambridge, https://www.cam.ac.uk/news/manifest-is-cambridge-dictionary-word-of-the-year.  Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.