Exploring the Words of the Year 2024 | Brain Rot and Manifest: Sunday Reading Task

This blog is part of the Sunday reading task assigned by the head of the Department of English (MKBU), Prof. and Dr. Dilip Barad Sir. Here is the link to the professor's blog for background reading: Click here 

Words of the Year 2024: "Brain Rot" and "Manifest" – A Reflection on Modern Life

Language is a mirror to society, reflecting its joys, struggles, and shifting priorities. Each year, the selection of Words of the Year by renowned dictionaries offers insight into the zeitgeist. For 2024, the Oxford Word of the Year is "Brain Rot," while Cambridge has chosen "Manifest." These choices encapsulate two contrasting yet interconnected facets of contemporary life: the pitfalls of the digital age and the enduring human desire for purpose and achievement.

Introducing the Words of the Year:

Oxford Word of the Year: "Brain Rot"

"Brain Rot" encapsulates the darker side of our hyperconnected world. As the digital age continues to dominate, the constant bombardment of information—memes, sensational news, endless scrolling—leaves many feeling mentally fatigued and emotionally drained. Studies have linked excessive screen time with increased anxiety, depression, and a decline in critical thinking skills. The phrase resonates particularly with younger generations, who often find themselves caught in a cycle of passive consumption.



Beyond individual experiences, "Brain Rot" highlights broader societal concerns. It mirrors the decline in attention spans, the erosion of meaningful discourse, and the growing influence of echo chambers. The term serves as both a critique and a warning, urging us to reassess our digital habits before the "rot" sets in irreversibly.

Cambridge Word of the Year: "Manifest"

In stark contrast, "Manifest" offers a beacon of hope. As the world grapples with economic uncertainty, climate crises, and social unrest, the act of manifesting has emerged as a popular coping mechanism. Drawing from concepts like the law of attraction, "Manifest" encourages individuals to focus on positive thoughts and intentional actions to create the life they desire.



This word’s rise reflects a collective shift toward introspection and empowerment. While skeptics may dismiss manifesting as wishful thinking, proponents argue that it fosters resilience and clarity. It’s a reminder that, even amid chaos, we can shape our own narratives. The popularity of "Manifest" also speaks to the blending of spirituality and practicality in modern self-help culture, as individuals seek balance in an often overwhelming world.

Cultural and Societal Significance:

The Age of "Brain Rot"

The term "brain rot" is particularly relevant in today’s hyperconnected world. Studies have shown that excessive screen time can harm attention spans, creativity, and even emotional well-being. Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram often prioritize content designed for maximum engagement rather than quality, leading to a constant influx of short-lived, sensational, and often shallow material.

Examples of Brain Rot Behavior

Brain rot behavior comes in various forms, including:

Video gaming: While it’s possible to game without getting addicted, some gamers play compulsively and develop gaming disorder. They become so entranced by video games’ alternate worlds, fanciful characters, and complicated plots that they can have difficulty functioning in other areas of life.

Zombie scrolling: This bran rot behavior refers to mindless habitual scrolling with no destination in mind or benefit derived. When zombie scrolling, you vacantly stare at your smart phone as you flit from one feed to another.

Doomscrolling: Doomscrolling involves searching for distressing information and negative news. Doomscrolls feel an overwhelming desire to be up to date on the latest information, even when it’s disturbing.

Social media addiction: Social media addiction is characterized by a persistent urge to check social media and a feeling of restlessness when you try to break the habit. Users can’t stop checking platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Constant notifications, bright colors, and stimulating sounds can literally mesmerize them, causing them to stop thinking clearly

The Allure of "Manifest":

On the flip side, "manifest" taps into a deeply human need to find meaning and control in a chaotic world. With economic uncertainties, climate crises, and personal anxieties on the rise, many people turn to the power of positive thinking as a form of solace. Social media is filled with posts about vision boards and affirmations, often accompanied by success stories that feel too good to be true.

However, critics argue that manifesting can lead to toxic positivity, where individuals blame themselves for failing to achieve their goals despite external obstacles. For instance, aspiring entrepreneurs might feel disheartened when manifesting success doesn’t replace hard work and strategic planning.

 Real-Life Connections:

As a millennial navigating the digital landscape, I find both "brain rot" and "manifest" relatable. There are days when I catch myself endlessly scrolling, losing precious hours to memes and mindless content. While it provides a temporary escape, the long-term impact often leaves me feeling drained and disconnected.

On the other hand, I’ve tried manifesting, inspired by countless online testimonials. Creating a vision board last year was empowering, but I quickly realized that without actionable steps, those goals remained dreams. For instance, my goal to write a book only gained momentum once I combined visualization with consistent writing and planning.

A poignant example of these trends in action is the recent phenomenon of "digital detox retreats." These retreats are a response to "brain rot," offering participants a chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with themselves. Similarly, workshops on manifesting are becoming popular at wellness events, blending visualization techniques with practical advice.

Language as a Reflection of Society

The selection of "brain rot" and "manifest" highlights how language evolves to capture the complexities of modern life. "Brain rot" serves as a wake-up call to reevaluate our relationship with technology, while "manifest" underscores the enduring human hope for self-improvement and fulfillment.

Both terms invite us to think critically about the choices we make daily. Are we passively consuming or actively creating? Are we chasing dreams without plans, or are we grounding our aspirations in reality?

Conclusion

The Words of the Year 2024 remind us that language is not just a tool for communication but also a lens through which we view our world. By exploring "brain rot" and "manifest," we gain deeper insight into the challenges and aspirations that define our era.

As we move forward, let us use this awareness to strike a balance engaging with technology mindfully and pursuing our goals with purpose and action.

Thank You!!