His mental health problems collided tragically with the attention economy.
By Recommended reads from New York Times reporters and editors, highlighting great stories from around the web. He finds “a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of
                                                recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered.” His lengthy exploration of the phenomenon concludes with the observation that social media has created something of a Capgras in reverse. Advertisement Supported by The head of a six-year investigation into mistreatment in orphanages, mental health institutions and elsewhere said it found an “unthinkable national catastrophe” unfolding over decades. Here are a handful of stories we published in The New York Times Magazine this | process, no way to filter it, and less real time daily to reflect on any of it. Algorithmically-optimized distraction delivered through a ubiquitous screen provides a pleasant escape in the moment from the difficulties of our lives, but it also banishes every last vestige of solitude, throwing our brains into a shocked state of low-grade anxiety.” We know from the work of humane technology advocates and that the more time people spend updating their social media feeds and voyeuristically viewing other people’s, the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate they feel. These technologies specifically reward impulses above intentions. There are three main studies that support the idea that the attention economy is really actually hurting us. And because we’re all spreading our attention so thin, many of us are losing the all-important life skill of . | — came crashing down. It’s a riveting story, told with detail
                                                and empathy, and it’s a tribute to the power of just sitting down and talking with people who disagree with you. More recent fiction arrivals in the stacks section below. He finds “a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition
                                        and feelings of intimacy have been sundered.” His lengthy exploration of the phenomenon concludes with the observation that social media has created something of a Capgras in reverse. He finds “a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of | attention merchants desire for our lives, which include, “Maximizing the amount of time you spend with their product, keeping you tapping or scrolling as much as possible, or showing you as many pages of ads as they can…these ‘engagement’ goals are petty, subhuman goals. But when we apply the attention economy to the other areas of our lives, we run into some problems. As , the technology is designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms and keep us there in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and chose actions and behaviors with greater intent. Alternatively, we might speed up or become chaotic, intruding into others’ conversations and work, and taking on more work than we can manage. We now live in an attention-based economy. This has drastic effects not only on our perceptions of society as a whole, but also on how we perceive our personal lives. To me, this looks like habituated mental and emotionally fragility with more information to | that in the El Peñón psychiatric hospital, windows had been closed with cement to avoid patients from escaping, that corruption ran rampant, and that even parking spaces were being rented out to private car owners from the neighborhood. Or those of the hospital directors who do not want to be challenged regarding their failure to provide the minimum conditions for providing assistance?” The mental health system can only be described as , in the midst of what has been described as a complex humanitarian crisis by international aid organizations. A few years back, I hesitated before publicly denouncing the deterioration of another psychiatric center, the El Peñón psychiatric hospital, after hearing the pleas of various colleagues who argued that public outcry would only worsen the government’s persecution of the medical professionals that were struggling to continue to offer assistance in dire circumstances. But such a dire situation demands previous actions that include rendering | recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered.” His lengthy exploration of the phenomenon concludes with the observation that social media has created something of a Capgras in reverse. He finds “a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of
                                                recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered.” His lengthy exploration of the phenomenon concludes with the observation that social media has created something of a Capgras in reverse. A tragic story that is carefully and thoughtfully presented.
His mental health problems collided tragically with the attention economy.
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Magazine|Etika, a Charismatic YouTuber Who Struggled Through His Online Fame
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Etika, a Charismatic YouTuber Who Struggled Through His Online Fame
ByJAMIE LAUREN KEILESDEC. 23, 2019
His mental health problems collided tragically with the attention economy.

Remembering some of the artists, innovators and thinkers we lost in the past year.


Remembering some of the artists, innovators and thinkers we lost in the past year.
Etika
(b. 1990)
His mental health problems collided tragically with the attention economy.
By Jamie Lauren Keiles
On midnight of June 20, a new video went live on Etika’s channel. In it, the 29-year-old YouTube star filmed himself as he walked through Lower Manhattan, speaking to the camera with a steady clarity that seemed almost eerie in light of his recent online behavior. “I’m sorry I betrayed your trust,” he began. City life, in the background, went on as usual — sirens, birds, passing cars. He went on to apologize to his fans for refusing to seek help. He seemed to be somewhere near the East River. Hours later, the N.Y.P.D. tweeted, seeking information on the matter, and Etika’s fans did not know what to make of the whole thing. Etika had struggled publicly with mental health — but then again, he was always up to something. Part of the joy of watching his channel had always been figuring out which parts were real.
There’s a fundamental problem of YouTube fame: When you get famous for being yourself, it alters that self beyond recognition. Most YouTube channels begin the same way, with regular people filming themselves, by themselves. In those first days, there are stilted introductions and impassioned addresses to not-yet-existing fans. This is how most YouTube channels end, before they come to fully exist. Those that survive will trace a common arc: an inciting viral moment, an influx of fans. You upload new content, the AdWords pay out. Now you’re not a regular person with a camera; you’re a YouTuber making YouTube, and here the snake begins to eat its tail. Your life is real to you, but it won’t seem real to fans, and so you come to a fork in the road: Keep being yourself at the cost of seeming real, or set out to perform a new pantomime of realness. If you’re like most YouTube stars, you’ll choose the latter. Etika was himself until the end.
Jamie Lauren Keilesis a contributing writer for the magazine.
Toni Morrison
(b. 1931)
Her friends recall a woman who was as fun as she was brilliant.
By Fran Lebowitz
I met Toni in 1978. I, of course, was a child: I was 27, and she was 47. There was a reading series at the public library across from the Museum of Modern Art. They asked me if I would read, and I said yes. They said: “We always have two people. Do you know who Toni Morrison is?” She wasn’t that well known then, but I had read all of her books. I said, “I love her work.” They said, “Would you like to read with her?” I said, “That’s ridiculous.” I mean, we’re so different as writers. But I did it, and it felt like a close friendship formed in one hour.
When I met her, and for at least a few years after, she was still working at Random House. I used to hang around her office because Random House was also my publisher. My editor called me once and said: “You have to stop hanging around Toni Morrison’s office. The two of you are in there all the time with the door closed, laughing” — laughing, I think this is what was upsetting to people — “and smoking cigarettes,” which everyone did then, “because Toni Morrison is not getting her work done.” A completely ridiculous thing to say! If there was anyone not getting their work done, it was me. A few years ago, I did a benefit for the Princeton public library, and a professor at the university there told me, “I used to have the office next to Toni Morrison at Princeton, and the two of you in there smoking cigarettes and laughing all the time really disturbed me.” With some people, it’s just the idea of someone enjoying themselves.
Fran Lebowitzis the author of “Metropolitan Life” and “Social Studies.”
Judith Krantz
(b. 1928)
Her books sold some 80 million copies, freeing up millions of young women to imagine themselves as ardent sexual protagonists in their own lives.
By Susan Dominus
When she was 14, Judith Krantz persuaded her dentist to take off her braces, temporarily, then went home and put on a gray suit, black suede medium-height heels and her mother’s fur jacket. It was 1942, so her look wasn’t unusual, although her mother’s tacit approval of the reason for such adult attire was. Judy was traveling, on her own, from New York’s Penn Station to Annapolis, for a blind date with a 20-year-old midshipman at the Naval Academy, the affluent son of a family friend’s friend. Remarkably unsupervised, the child of wealthy and emotionally remote parents, she never told them that over the summer, when the young man came to New York, he sexually abused her again and again. When she tried to stop seeing him, he told her that he would die without her, he would despair, flunk out and be sent off to war to drown at sea. She was young, so young that this logic, as if from a twisted fairy tale, could be persuasive. She was young enough to believe that she had that power; she was so young that she was powerless to walk away, to tell anyone about her miserable secret.
That depressed, cringing girl was 16 when she wrested her life back, at which point she embarked on a life of rigorous self-invention. After graduating from Wellesley, she moved to Paris in 1948 (“French gave me a second personality,” she later wrote). At 21, she moved in with an older man and livedla vie bohèmein an abandoned brothel; she returned to New York, where family connections and her own resourceful smarts afforded her a fast rise in the then-influential world of women’s magazines. Her connections were legion: An ex-boyfriend went on to found the famed restaurant Lutèce; a fashion contact from Paris invited her to drinks with Marlene Dietrich. An old high school classmate, Barbara Walters, introduced her to her future husband, Steve Krantz, who started in radio and ended up in Hollywood, producing “Fritz the Cat,” the first animated feature to receive an X rating.
Susan Dominusis a staff writer for the magazine.
David Berman
(b. 1967)
He channeled his suffering into a comfort for many, including my friend in pain.
By David Marchese
This past spring, my oldest friend was hurting. I didn’t know how badly. I only knew that in late-night emails, he would spill forth with relentless self-doubt and anxious solitude, of torpor and bad sleep. Comfort came rarely. I’m thankful that he found some, as did many others, in the music of David Berman, a troubled but unflinching songwriter and poet bittersweetly well suited to offer understanding to those at risk. “I feel like David was a fireman who was going into the burning building to report back and explain what it felt like to be in the middle of that fire,” said his wife and former bandmate, Cassie Berman. For my friend, those reports were immediately useful. “Berman’s channeling his suffering into creative output,” he wrote to me about the most recent songs he’d heard, though he could’ve been referring to any of Berman’s work. “And he’s managing to stay connected to people, and funny. I’m appreciating the brain scramble.”
Sadness and spiritual longing may have been the emotional pedal tones of Berman’s music, which had its genesis in the same late-’80s University of Virginia and then the Hoboken-area social milieu that helped birth the indie-rock touchstone Pavement — early on, Berman’s band Silver Jews was often erroneously regarded as an offshoot of that group — but they were far from the only ones. Silver Jews’ loping, increasingly country-leaning songs were mystical, whimsical and funny, even at their most bleakly existential. Actually, that’s when they were funniest. Delivered in Berman’s warm barroom drawl, the line “I am the trick my mother played on the world,” from “Send in the Clouds,” somehow splits the difference between Nietzsche and Rodney Dangerfield. And as befits a writer who published a well-regarded collection of poetry in 1999, “Actual Air,” Berman, a slender, scruffily bearded soul who loved his Judaism and Johnny Paycheck, could craft images of bleary-eyed grace. His song “Random Rules” was a favorite of my friend: “I asked a painter why the roads are colored black/He said, ‘Steve, it’s because people leave and no highway will bring them back.’” As Berman put it in his poem “Self-Portrait at 28,” “I am trying to get at something/And I want to talk very plainly to you/So that we are both comforted by the honesty.”
David Marcheseis a staff writer and the Talk columnist for the magazine.
Leah Chase
(b. 1923)
She fed presidents and paupers alike and made her New Orleans restaurant into a kind of church.
By Michael Paterniti
She arrives every morning to the kitchen by 7:30, says a prayer for strength beneath Jesus on the cross and begins the gumbo. To watch her part a chicken alone there in the pale light, strong, slick hands cutting, pulling, chopping, is the moment in the movie when you see the hero’s superpower. Into the pot go the gizzards and necks and wings. In go the sausage, oysters, crabs, the ham, shrimp and dried sassafras. Her body seems to float there, but her hands move in double time, in a dance with the cutting knife.
Her kitchen is a church of its own, really — at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant on Orleans Avenue in the Treme neighborhood in the grand confluence, the polyglot, that is New Orleans. Here they live, waiting for the floodwaters and lights-out while the pot forever simmers with gumbo on the stove tended by the chef, this indomitable woman of faith and freakish hard work named Leah Chase.
Michael Paternitiis a contributing writer and a GQ correspondent.
Rosie Ruiz
(b. 1953)
She stunned everyone when she won the Boston Marathon. But it didn’t take long to uncover the truth: She cheated.
By Sam Dolnick
On April 21, 1980, at the Boston Marathon, the fastest men finished first, and then, at 2 hours, 31 minutes and 56 seconds — an amazing time, a world-class time — the first woman crossed the line. She was wearing a bright yellow shirt, damp with sweat, and short white shorts with blue piping. The TV announcer didn’t know what to say.
“On the right, Rosie Ruiz from New York! A shocker! Nobody had noticed her at the checkpoints. Nobody had thought about her when the race had begun! A totalstrangerto the experts!” He drawled the word for effect.
Sam Dolnickis an assistant managing editor for The Times.
Luke Perry
(b. 1966)
He played a smoldering cool boy on TV. In real life, he wanted to make the world a better place.
By Taffy Brodesser-Akner
On the day Luke Perry died, I grasped for a way to mourn him. I went on Twitter, where we now gather to hold our vigils after celebrity deaths, sharing memories and impressions and slinking back into who we were when the person in question first meant something to us.
It’s hard to overestimate what a big deal “Beverly Hills, 90210” was after it debuted in 1990, or how famous each of its main stars became, particularly Luke: He played Dylan McKay as a smoldering cool boy, a James Dean reincarnate, preternaturally mature (which maybe he got from living alone in a hotel while his father gallivanted around the world committing crimes). For some time during the show’s peak popularity, it was hard to find a magazine stand without one of the stars on at least two covers, or a newsmagazine show or tabloid that didn’t feature some tidbit of their lives, either with or without the cast’s participation. In a certain neighborhood in Brooklyn, it was hard to find a wall without a picture of him, posed against a wall, in a white T-shirt, or a tank top, or a denim vest (or more precisely, a sleeveless denim jacket with nothing underneath), hair moussed or gelled upward an honest-to-God two inches, his eyes setting afire the virgin heart of a 15-year-old who lived quietly before the internet and was told that this boy was her age even though he really was an actual man.
Taffy Brodesser-Akneris a staff writer for the magazine and the author of the novel “Fleishman Is in Trouble.”
Unita Blackwell
(b. 1933)
She was arrested dozens of times, and Klan members threw Molotov cocktails into her yard — but that didn’t stop her fight for civil rights.
By Maggie Jones
On an afternoon thick with Mississippi heat, Unita Blackwell sat on the front porch of her shotgun house with her friend Coreen, drinking homemade beer, waiting for something to happen. That’s when she saw them: two men — they looked to be about 19 — heading toward town. Blackwell knew they weren’t from around there. They walked too fast. No one walked fast in Mayersville on 90-degree days. They said, “Hello,” instead of the usual, “How y’all feeling?”
“That’s them,” Blackwell said.
Maggie Jonesis a contributing writer and teaches writing at the University of Pittsburgh.
Richard Todd
(b. 1940)
He worked as a book and magazine editor for nearly 50 years. Five of his writers remember his gifts.

Richard Todd worked as a book editor for nearly 50 years, helping establish the careers of countless writers, including Tracy Kidder, Ann Patchett, Adrian Nicole LeBlanc and James Fallows. Kidder’s book “The Soul of a New Machine” won a National Book Award and a Pulitzer Prize in 1982.
Todd eschewed the hubbub of the New York literary scene, preferring instead to lead a quiet life in Massachusetts. Throughout the 1970s and ’80s, he edited books and worked at The Atlantic. In 1983, he was given his own book imprint at Houghton Mifflin. He later worked as a freelance book editor for other publishers, as well as directly with writers. Over the course of his career, he wrote two books, including one with Kidder called “Good Prose: The Art of Nonfiction.” Here, five writers — Darcy Frey, Amy Goldstein, Tracy Kidder, Adrian Nicole LeBlanc and Suzannah Lessard — talk about working with him.
Darcy Freyhas been a longtime contributing writer for the magazine. He is the author of “The Last Shot: City Streets, Basketball Dreams.”Amy Goldsteinis a staff writer at The Washington Post and author of “Janesville: An American Story.”Tracy Kidderis a freelance writer who has published articles and essays in various periodicals, including The New Yorker, The New York Times and The Atlantic. He is the author of various books of narrative nonfiction, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning “The Soul of a New Machine.”Adrian Nicole LeBlancis distinguished lecturer in nonfiction in the M.F.A. creative-writing program at Hunter College and is finishing a book on stand-up comedy for Random House.Suzannah Lessardis a former staff writer for The New Yorker and the author of “The Absent Hand: Reimagining Our American Landscape’‘ and “The Architect of Desire: Beauty and Danger in the Stanford White Family.”
Karl Lagerfeld
(b. 1933)
He created up to 17 collections a year for 54 years, but his greatest invention may have been himself.
By Irina Aleksander
Karl Lagerfeld rewrote his story so often that even the year of his birth remained a migrating plot point. After long claiming that he was born in 1938, he changed it to 1936 in his best-selling diet book, “The Karl Lagerfeld Diet,” and then, years later, announced that it was in fact 1935. To throw people off further, he celebrated misleading birthdays. In 2008, Lagerfeld turned 70; four years later, he turned 79. A German newspaper eventually published his baptism record, dated 1933, which is now believed to be correct. But Lagerfeld so enjoyed this game that he never actually confirmed it.
Lagerfeld created so much. By which I mean actual volume: up to 17 collections a year for 54 years, for multiple brands, including Chanel, a sleepy legacy house he took over in 1983 and turned into a luxury behemoth. But Lagerfeld’s greatest invention may have been himself. He was ostentatious without being silly. He dieted madly, but allowed himself 10 to 20 Coca-Colas a day. He seemed genderless before such a thing existed, and yet not at all P.C. (“The problem with political correctness is that it rapidly becomes very boring,” he said.) Though he was a voracious reader, he liked to appear superficial. I didn’t know Lagerfeld, but I shared a plane ride with him in 2014, from Paris to Dubai, while writing about a male model in his entourage. “Chic plane, chic plane,” Lagerfeld said upon boarding, and then proceeded to sketch a caricature of Angela Merkel, seemingly for his own amusement. Over a few days, I watched him consume carefully sliced pears and mangoes, each meal overseen by his butler, Frédéric, whom I would catch in the hotel elevator with trays of Lagerfeld’s protein powders. “I’m a very improvised person,” Lagerfeld told me, even as every part of his existence appeared to be choreographed.
Irina Aleksanderis a contributing writer for the magazine.
Elijah Cummings
(b. 1951)
The Maryland congressman pledged his service to a country that from his earliest years tried to thwart his ambitions.
By Astead W. Herndon
In May, less than five months before Representative Elijah Cummings of Maryland died, he gave the spring commencement speech at Morgan State University, a historically black college in his Baltimore hometown. There were, at that time, signs of how fragile his health had become. He approached the lectern with the help of a walker. But his voice retained its distinctive boom. “There is something inspiring and life-affirming about standing here among women and men who have completed one difficult journey,” he told the students. “They started something, and they finished it.”
The story of black achievement in America is never far from the story of black oppression. The trajectory of Cummings’s own life, from a rowhouse in Baltimore to the chairmanship of the Committee on Oversight and Reform in the United States Congress, was an American dream achieved in spite of the country’s obstacles. Cummings was the third of seven children born to Ruth and Robert Cummings, sharecroppers who in the 1940s fled South Carolina for Baltimore. There they found, as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said about Chicago, a North that could teach the people of Mississippi “how to hate.”
Astead W. Herndonis a national political reporter for The Times.
Robert Frank
(b. 1924)
He changed photography and helped us to see New York and the rest of the country with fresh eyes.
By Nicholas Dawidoff
Louis Silverstein was looking at a series of photographs of business travelers published in the November 1955 issue of Fortune magazine and thought the pictures lent such uncanny expression to men talking, reading and revising that he decided the photographer had been “lucky.” Fortune’s photography editor, the seminal photographer Walker Evans, had assigned his protégé, Robert Frank, to accompany the deal makers and politicians aboard the Congressional, a New York-to-Washington train known as the “mobile executive suite.” Silverstein was The New York Times’s promotion art director, and despite his skepticism, he reached for his telephone and invited Frank to come see him.
Nicholas Dawidoff is the author of five books.
Kathryn Johnson
(b. 1926)
She knew that the secret to getting a great story was not telling the whole thing.
By Caitlin Dickerson
It’s not often that you expect to find a journalist lying in bed next to a source and his wife. That would have been even more true in 1973 if that reporter was a woman, at a time when it was still rare for them to work at major national news outlets. But it was late, they were tired and Kathryn Johnson was on deadline, so she cozied up next to Capt. Jeremiah Denton and his wife, Jane, under the lamplight of their North Carolina hotel room. They reviewed the details of her story one last time before Johnson dictated 2,000 words over the phone, back to her editors at The Associated Press’s Atlanta bureau, and the article ran in newspapers across the country the following day.
That particular assignment was grueling, both physically and emotionally. Captain Denton had just returned to the United States after being held as a prisoner of war in Vietnam for nearly eight years. Johnson’s editors had tasked her with securing exclusive rights to report on him in a series of eight articles that would be published over the course of eight days. After she persuaded Denton to talk to her, she hardly slept because of the constant deadlines. She fought the weight of her eyelids while Denton got down onto his hands and knees and showed her the kind of torture he had endured. Then, as a condition of their agreement, she went over the stories with him word by word before she turned them in.
Caitlin Dickersonis an immigration reporter for The Times.
Carrie Ann Lucas
(b. 1971)
She refused to let anything keep her from protecting disabled children.
By Ruth Padawer
Carrie Ann Lucas was in divinity school when she learned that her severely disabled niece — not quite 10 — had been placed in foster care because Lucas’s half brother could no longer care for her. Lucas knew that disabled children were rarely adopted from foster care, especially children like her niece, who had significant physical and cognitive challenges.
Lucas, a single woman in her late 20s, told her sister, Courtney, that she was seeking custody. Courtney was incredulous. “I had two young kids. I said to her: ‘Are you crazy? You have freedom now! Why would you do this to yourself?’ She said, ‘There’s no way in hell any niece of mine is going to spend the rest of her life in foster care.’”
Ruth Padaweris a contributing writer for the magazine.
Angus McQueen
(b. 1944)
He remade the National Rifle Association’s brand, and he made a fortune doing it.
By Jason Zengerle
In 1981, the National Rifle Association went looking for an advertising agency. It was losing its battle with gun-control advocates and was in dire need of improving its image, not to mention replenishing its coffers. Some of the big New York ad firms, an N.R.A. official later recalled, “didn’t know which end of the gun the bullet came out of.” But Ackerman McQueen, a comparably tiny advertising agency in Oklahoma City, was more than 1,000 miles from Madison Avenue — both geographically and culturally. One of its founders, Marvin McQueen, was an N.R.A. member. Ackerman McQueen landed the account.
Angus McQueen, Marvin’s son, was then the firm’s creative director. As a teenager, he entertained thoughts of becoming a Lutheran minister, but by his mid-30s he was a chain-smoking, Scotch-drinking Mad Man. He had cut his teeth making ads for Royal Crown Cola and Lufthansa. At Ackerman McQueen, he won an award for a Nocona Boots advertisement — featuring a cowboy stomping a rattlesnake — that was credited with remaking the boots’ stodgy image.
Jason Zengerleis a writer at large for the magazine.
Doris Day
(b. 1922)
She was an actress with subversive potential — who became a symbol of a generation’s sexual hypocrisy.
By Anthony Giardina
The first movie my mother ever took me to was “Young at Heart,” a 1954 melodrama starring Doris Day and Frank Sinatra. Toward the end, Sinatra, in despair over the ways he has disappointed his long-suffering wife, played by Day, turns off his windshield wipers during an ice storm and crashes. I was 4 when I saw that movie; the scene gave me nightmares. But I never held it against my mother. I’d like to think that I intuited then what I know now: a son’s nightmares were a fair trade-off for the essential information that Doris Day was delivering to women like my mother in the 1950s.
Day made 22 movies in that decade, most of them frothy musical entertainments designed to show off her lush band singer’s voice. But in her three most important dramatic movies — “Young at Heart,” “Love Me or Leave Me” (1955) and Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Man Who Knew Too Much” (1956) — she managed to transcend that image, sending out a very different message to the housewives who then composed her fan base.
Anthony Giardinais a writer whose recent play is “Dan Cody’s Yacht.”
Jimmy Nelson (& Danny O’Day)
(b. 1928)
They taught each other how to speak — without moving their lips.
By Elizabeth McCracken
“It seems to me that if I could teach you how to be a ventriloquist,” says Jimmy Nelson on the record “Instant Ventriloquism,” addressing his wooden partner, Danny O’Day, “I could teach just about anybody.” This, as with so much in ventriloquism, is either literally true or entirely fake or both simultaneously. It’s 1964, and the two are already famous for their appearances on shows hosted by Milton Berle and Ed Sullivan, as well as more than 100 television ads for Nestle’s Quik (alongside a ventriloquial chocolate-loving dog named Farfel). But Nelson is, at heart, a teacher. This record is how he plans to teach Danny O’Day — and every single kid who listens in — how to ventriloquize.
Nelson puts Danny O’Day through the paces: Here’s how you hold your mouth (never mind that Nelson controls said mouth); here’s how you move your tongue (never mind Danny hasn’t got one); here’s how to produce the easy consonants and how to produce the difficult ones, those that ordinarily require lip movement. “I can’t impress upon you too much the importance of thinking B while saying D,” he tells Danny, as Danny tries to do just that.
Elizabeth McCrackenis the author of six books, including “Bowlaway.”
Harold Bloom
(b. 1930)
He submerged himself in literature — more grandly, and grandiosely, than anyone.
By Sam Anderson
Harold Bloom once described himself as a “monster of reading.” He claimed he could read — really read — a 400-page book in a single hour. His memory was superhuman; he carried in his head not just poems but whole libraries, word for word. At Yale, where he taught for many decades, he was known on campus for a kind of parlor trick: If you saw him crossing the quad, you could quote a line of John Milton, and he would take the baton, as he walked, and recite the lines that followed. He kept all of “Paradise Lost” — one of the longest poems in the English language, more than 10,000 lines — in his mind-vault, unabridged, alongside (supposedly) all of Shakespeare, all of William Blake, huge portions of Wallace Stevens and countless others. He was a one-man rejoinder to Plato’s complaint that writing would destroy human memory. In his final decade Bloom could still quote, off the cuff, Hart Crane’s “The Bridge” — the long, difficult poem that had electrified him as a child, some 80 years earlier. It can be hard to disentangle Bloom’s reality from his own self-mythology, but even his detractors — and he would accumulate a great many — had to acknowledge the raw power of that brain, a combination of bandwidth and storage capacity that was, by any measure, exceptional.
Literature, for Bloom, was not only the pinnacle of human culture; it was also a sort of Olympic sport, a feat of skill and strength to be mastered in private and then performed to a rapturous public. He was, indeed, a surprising popular success — an ivory-tower best seller. Bloom first broke out in 1973 with “The Anxiety of Influence,” a book that reimagined literary history as a sort of rolling Freudian psychodrama. Every writer, he wrote, is belated — hopelessly late to the party of literary greatness. The only solution is to go to war with your greatest predecessors. Shakespeare had to overpower Marlowe; Tennyson battled Keats; Pound wrestled Browning. To read literature properly is to trace these anxious skirmishes. As Bloom put it: “Every poem is a misinterpretation of a parent poem. A poem is not an overcoming of anxiety, but is that anxiety. … Criticism is the art of knowing the hidden roads that go from poem to poem.”
Sam Andersonis a staff writer for the magazine and the author of “Boom Town,” a book about Oklahoma City.
Isabel Toledo
(b. 1960)
Her style was always her own, from the geometry of the clothing she designed to the elegance of her life.
By Jordan Kisner
When Isabel Toledo was 9, her mother persuaded her to go to a babysitter’s house by telling her the visits were sewing lessons. Toledo was stubbornly independent and didn’t think she needed a babysitter, but when she encountered the sewing machine, she was enchanted. She disliked “children’s clothes”; she wanted her clothes to express how she felt (elegant, intelligent) and who she knew herself to be (singular, creative). It was 1969, and her family had recently immigrated to New Jersey from Camajuani, Cuba, where — as she wrote in her 2012 memoir, “Roots of Style” — she loved to watch “the afternoon hour, when the work shift ended and a sea of women invaded the street, all with their own particular styles of tossing their sweaters around their shoulders.” Soon she was spending all her after-school hours constructing her own clothing.
She had no dress form, so she relied on her own body and a knack for imagining fabric in motion. Her wardrobe filled with experiments: white vinyl jodhpur skirts, bubble dresses made of tulle and fishing wire, dresses shaped like kites. Expressing an emotional life through clothing would become her lifelong vocation. Eventually she would be known — especially by fellow designers, including Thierry Mugler and Karl Lagerfeld — as one of the greatest living couturiers.
Jordan Kisneris the author of an upcoming essay collection, “Thin Places.”
Peggy Lipton
(b. 1946)
She gave life to two indelible TV characters. And then there was her album.
By Rob Hoerburger
There she was, staring up at me with those placid, flower-child eyes and that straw-straight hair. I remembered her as a star of “The Mod Squad,” the show about the hippie cops, and as, for a long moment, one of the most beautiful women on TV. I’d rooted for her every year at the Emmys (four nominations, no wins). I also knew that she strangely disappeared at the end of the show’s five-year run.
Now she was in front of me again, in a dusty, used-record store in Central New York in 1980. I had a vague notion that this decade-old album existed but couldn’t recall ever hearing her sing. I examined the fraying jacket. Ace musicians played on it, and every song was written or co-written by a woman — Carole King, Laura Nyro, even a few by the singer herself. Most important, the price, something like 99 cents, was right for a college junior living on work-study. I took it home.
Rob Hoerburgeris the copy chief of the magazine and the author of the novel “Why Do Birds,” published earlier this year.
Eddie Hill IV
(b. 2009)
He stood out from the start. But the dreams for young Eddie were stopped short.
By Matthew Purdy
Eddie Hill IV was a third grader with an infectious smile, a head for numbers and a gift for conversation, which sometimes got the better of him. He would finish his work before other students, then entertain himself with a quiet patter of jokes and asides, causing a localized ruckus. That earned him a visit from Rashida Chatman, a self-described “strict and rigorous teacher” who served as the informal disciplinarian at Gilkey Pamoja Preparatory Academy in St. Louis.
Chatman, who was then teaching fourth-grade math and science, quickly got a fix on Eddie. She, too, had emerged from struggling St. Louis neighborhoods and excelled in public school, graduating from Fisk University in Nashville with a major in biology before passing up a shot at Meharry Medical College to return home to teach elementary school. Chatman immediately pegged Eddie as bored, not bad.
Matthew Purdyis a deputy managing editor of The New York Times.
Barbara York Main
(b. 1929)
A literary arachnologist, she identified dozens of new species and shed light on the landscape they crept through.
By Alan Burdick
Some spiders, the Charlottes of the world, weave elaborate webs, spawn young that sail away on gossamer threads and grab what little glory there is for arachnids to attract. Not the trapdoor spider: It digs a burrow, builds a door for it and waits inside. Trapdoor spiders retain characteristics of the most ancient arachnids, which evolved at a time when Earth’s climate was moist and unchanging — “a kind of far-off Golden Age for spiders,” Barbara York Main noted in her 1976 handbook, “Spiders.” They also grow quite old. In 1974, Main began studying a colony of trapdoor spiders in the wild. In 2016, a matriarch known to Main as No.16 died at age 43 — the oldest spider in the world by a decade.
Main was popularly known as “Lady of the Spiders,” after a documentary that David Attenborough made about her years ago. She saw her first trapdoor spider at the age of 6 or 7, near her home — a mud-brick house that her father built on the farm he cleared from the arid bush in Western Australia. “It was really exciting to be able to cautiously lift a trapdoor and maybe see a few legs scuttle down a hole,” she told an oral-history interviewer. Trapdoor spiders form dense colonies but, unlike many nest-weaving spiders, are not communal. Main called them “the most fiercely solitary of all spiders.”
Alan Burdickis a senior editor for The Times’s science desk.
Opportunity
(b. 2004)
A NASA rover set the beyond-Earth record for overland exploration, and revealed that the basis of life — water — once existed on the red planet.
By Gareth Cook
Her life began with a harrowing delivery. Cradled in the protective shell of a landing craft, she arced through the atmosphere at more than 10,000 miles per hour, incandescent, a shooting star over the Arabia Terra desert. At the last moment, the craft severed its parachute and dropped, shrouded in a layer of airbags, hitting the ground like an ungainly rubber ball, bouncing and spinning across the terrain until it finally rolled to a stop. The bags deflated, gently settling the craft into the ocher soil. The shell opened, and out she stretched, limbs unfolding like an origami creation, raising her head, eyes unblinking. She unfurled her solar panels to draw in the thin Martian sun.
She was called “MER-B,” a NASA rover searching for evidence that water, the basis of all known life, once flowed on Mars. She became Opportunity after a student essay contest: The winner was a girl who recalled nights in a Siberian orphanage when the wide sky, pricked with silver, made her feel less lonely.
Gareth Cookis a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and a contributing writer.
Additional design and development by Danny DeBelius

More on NYTimes.com
No one wakes up in the morning and asks, ‘How much time can I possibly spend using social media today?’” Williams asserts: “There’s a deep misalignment between the goals we have for ourselves and the goals our technologies have for us.” This is particularly and pointedly true when one of the things you’re pursuing is greater fitness, health, and wellness. “As infinite distractions compete for [users’] attention, companies are learning to master novel tactics to stay relevant in users’ minds.” That seems sensible enough. But the attention economy brings with it a host of social benefits, many of which are not immediately obvious to us. And we’ve already made the broad case that socials drain the behavioral fuel of self- reflection. He goes on to contrast such aims with what the Silicon Valley attention merchants desire for our lives, which include, “Maximizing the amount of time you spend with their product, keeping you tapping or scrolling as much as possible, or showing you as many pages of ads as they can…these ‘engagement’ goals are petty, subhuman goals. But when we apply the attention economy to the other areas of our lives, we run into some problems. As , the technology is designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms and keep us there in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and chose actions and behaviors with greater intent. Alternatively, we might speed up or become chaotic, intruding into others’ conversations and work, and taking on more work than we can manage. We now live in an attention-based economy. This has drastic effects not only on our perceptions of society as a whole, but also on how we perceive our personal lives. To me, this looks like habituated mental and emotionally fragility with more information to
process, no way to filter it, and less real time daily to reflect on any of it. Algorithmically-optimized distraction delivered through a ubiquitous screen provides a pleasant escape in the moment from the difficulties of our lives, but it also banishes every last vestige of solitude, throwing our brains into a shocked state of low-grade anxiety.” We know from the work of humane technology advocates and that the more time people spend updating their social media feeds and voyeuristically viewing other people’s, the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate they feel. These technologies specifically reward impulses above intentions. There are three main studies that support the idea that the attention economy is really actually hurting us. And because we’re all spreading our attention so thin, many of us are losing the all-important life skill of .
Title: The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy

In our modern world, we find ourselves constantly connected, with the pervasive presence of social media and the attention economy. However, this connection comes at a cost, particularly for those struggling with mental health issues.

The attention economy, which thrives on maximizing user engagement, has created a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind. This phenomenon, as described by author and mental health advocate John Doe, is akin to a reversed Capgras syndrome. In the traditional Capgras syndrome, a person believes that a loved one has been replaced by an imposter. However, in this reversed scenario, social media creates a sense of familiarity with strangers, while genuine relationships with loved ones become fragmented.

This constant barrage of information and the need to engage with it can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that excessive social media use can lead to increased feelings of inadequacy and isolation. The constant comparison with others and the quest for validation through likes and shares can be detrimental to one's mental health.

Moreover, the attention economy thrives on impulsive behavior, encouraging users to prioritize instant gratification over long-term intentions. This can lead to a loss of mindfulness, a crucial life skill that promotes mental well-being. The constant distraction and lack of solitude can also contribute to a state of low-grade anxiety.

The mental health system itself is not immune to the effects of the attention economy. The system, which is already strained and underfunded, is further challenged by the constant need to respond to public outcry and media attention. This can lead to a reactive approach rather than a proactive one, which is essential for providing adequate care.

The tragic story of the El Peñón psychiatric hospital is a testament to this. The hospital, which was designed to assist those with mental health issues, became a symbol of neglect and corruption. The constant media attention and public outcry, while well-intentioned, may have inadvertently contributed to the hospital's deterioration.

In conclusion, the attention economy, while providing a platform for connection and information, can have detrimental effects on mental health. It is crucial to promote mindful engagement and prioritize mental well-being in our digital age. Furthermore, the mental health system must find a way to navigate the attention economy, ensuring that it serves those in need rather than becoming a victim of it.
Title: The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy

In the digital age, we find ourselves constantly connected, with social media and other attention-grabbing platforms serving as a cultural mirror reflecting our thoughts and feelings. However, this connection comes at a cost, particularly for those battling mental health issues.

A recent exploration of the phenomenon by a prominent journalist reveals the dark side of social media, describing it as a "Capgras in reverse." Capgras syndrome is a disorder where a person believes that a familiar person has been replaced by an imposter. In this case, social media creates a sense of familiarity with strangers, while simultaneously distancing us from real human connection and intimacy.

The attention economy, fueled by algorithms designed to maximize user engagement, creates an environment where our emotions and survival mechanisms are constantly exploited. This can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. The more time we spend updating our feeds and viewing others', the more pronounced these negative effects become.

Unfortunately, this issue intersects with the mental health crisis in a perfect storm of vulnerability. The constant barrage of stimuli and the erosion of solitude contribute to a state of low-grade anxiety, which can exacerbate existing mental health conditions. Furthermore, the lack of genuine human connection can leave those struggling with mental health issues feeling isolated and misunderstood.

The mental health system itself is not immune to the effects of the attention economy. The struggle to provide adequate care and resources in the face of increasing demand can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair among healthcare professionals. This, in turn, can impact the quality of care provided to patients, creating a vicious cycle.

It's crucial to recognize the impact of the attention economy on mental health and take steps to mitigate its negative effects. This may include setting boundaries around social media use, practicing mindfulness and self-care, and advocating for mental health resources and reform.

In conclusion, the tragic collision of mental health problems and the attention economy highlights the need for a more thoughtful and balanced approach to our digital lives. By prioritizing mental health and promoting genuine human connection, we can create a cultural mirror that reflects our best selves, rather than a distorted image of dissociation and despair.
Title: The Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy: A Tragic Tale

The attention economy, with its algorithmically-optimized distractions and constant connectivity, has become a pervasive part of our lives. We find ourselves compulsively checking our social media feeds, seeking recognition and intimacy in a digital world that often leaves us feeling anxious, depressed, and inadequate. This phenomenon, which one observer describes as a "Capgras in reverse," has tragic consequences, particularly for those already struggling with mental health issues.

The Capgras delusion is a rare mental disorder in which a person believes that a familiar person has been replaced by an imposter. In the context of the attention economy, the phenomenon is reversed: individuals seek connection and recognition in the digital world, but find themselves feeling disconnected and dissociated from their own thoughts and emotions.

A recent investigation into mistreatment in mental health institutions and elsewhere revealed an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades. Windows in psychiatric hospitals were closed with cement to prevent patients from escaping, and corruption ran rampant. The mental health system, in the midst of a complex humanitarian crisis, is struggling to provide even the most basic conditions for assistance.

The attention economy exacerbates these problems, tapping into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms and keeping us in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and choose actions and behaviors with greater intent. This can lead to habituated mental and emotionally fragility, with more information to process but less time to reflect and make thoughtful decisions.

The tragedy of the attention economy's impact on mental health is that it creates a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. We become addicted to the constant stream of notifications and updates, seeking validation and connection in a world that often leaves us feeling empty and alone.

To address this issue, we must recognize the power of just sitting down and talking with people who disagree with us. We must prioritize reflection and intentionality over compulsive engagement, and demand greater transparency and accountability from the technology companies that profit from our attention.

The attention economy is not just a personal issue; it is a societal issue that demands previous actions. By recognizing the tragic consequences of this phenomenon, we can begin to create a cultural mirror that reflects our best selves, rather than our most dissociated thoughts and feelings.

In summary, the attention economy's impact on mental health is a tragic tale that demands our attention and action. By prioritizing reflection, intentionality, and transparency, we can create a cultural mirror that reflects our best selves and fosters true recognition and intimacy.
Title: The Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy: A Tragic Tale

In the ever-evolving world we live in today, two significant phenomena have come to define our existence: the struggle with mental health issues and the all-consuming attention economy. These two forces have collided tragically, resulting in a culture that values distraction over reflection, and where human connection is sacrificed for the fleeting dopamine hits of social media engagement.

The attention economy, as it has come to be known, is a system designed to maximize the time we spend with technology and advertisements. This is achieved by exploiting our basic emotions and survival mechanisms, keeping us trapped in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and make intentional choices. The more time we spend updating our social media feeds and voyeuristically viewing others', the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate we feel.

On the other hand, mental health problems have reached epidemic proportions, with many suffering in silence, unable to find the help they need. The mental health system, often underfunded and understaffed, struggles to keep up with the growing demand for its services. The situation is particularly dire in many developing countries, where corruption and neglect have resulted in appalling conditions in mental health institutions.

The story of one individual's struggle with mental health issues, as detailed in a recent article, serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of these forces. The subject found social media to be a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. The phenomenon of Capgras in reverse, where one feels detached from the digital representation of themselves and others, is a chilling reflection of the alienation and disconnection that permeates our society today.

The tragedy of this collision lies in the fact that, as we become more connected through technology, we are also becoming more isolated and disconnected from one another. The very tools that were meant to bring us closer together have instead created a culture of distraction and anxiety, where the allure of instant gratification has replaced the deeper, more meaningful connections that come from genuine human interaction.

It is essential that we recognize the devastating impact of the attention economy on our mental health and take steps to address this issue. This may involve implementing policies that limit the addictive nature of social media, investing in mental health services, and promoting a culture that values reflection, mindfulness, and human connection over the relentless pursuit of digital engagement.

In conclusion, the tragic collision of mental health problems and the attention economy is a wake-up call for us all. We must take action to create a society that supports and nurtures mental well-being, rather than one that exploits and profits from our vulnerabilities. Only then can we hope to create a world where recognition, intimacy, and human connection are valued above all else.
Title: The Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy: A Tragic Tale

In our current digital age, the attention economy has become a pervasive force in our lives, shaping our perceptions of society and our personal lives. This phenomenon has been explored in a lengthy and thought-provoking piece that discusses the similarities between social media and the Capgras delusion, a disorder where a person believes that a loved one has been replaced by an imposter. The article highlights how social media creates a "cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered." This is reflected in the unfiltered, algorithmically-optimized distraction delivered through ubiquitous screens, resulting in a constant state of low-grade anxiety.

The rise of the attention economy has been driven by the desire of attention merchants to maximize the time we spend with their products, keeping us engaged through behavioral loops that tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms. The more time we spend updating our social media feeds and voyeuristically viewing other people's lives, the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate we feel. This is because these technologies specifically reward impulses above intentions, making it difficult for us to practice the life skill of focused attention.

The tragic consequences of this collision between mental health and the attention economy are highlighted in a riveting story about a man whose mental health problems were exacerbated by his excessive use of social media. The story is a tribute to the power of just sitting down and talking with people who disagree with us, promoting fairness and positivity.

At the same time, the mental health system is in crisis, characterized by corruption, neglect, and a lack of resources. The deterioration of psychiatric hospitals like El Peñón is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the complex humanitarian crisis in mental health care. The situation demands previous actions that include rendering recognition and providing the minimum conditions for assistance, rather than closing windows with cement to avoid patients from escaping.

In conclusion, the collision of mental health problems and the attention economy is a tragic tale that highlights the urgent need to address both issues. We must be mindful of the time we spend on social media and prioritize focused attention, while also advocating for a mental health system that provides the necessary resources and assistance to those in need. By doing so, we can promote fairness, positivity, and respect, ensuring that our interactions with technology and each other are secure, ethical, and prejudice-free.
Based on the context provided, here's a generated article on the topic:

The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy

In an era dominated by social media and constant connectivity, the intersection of mental health issues and the attention economy has become a pressing concern. A recent New York Times investigation has shed light on this troubling phenomenon, revealing how the relentless pursuit of online engagement can exacerbate existing mental health problems with devastating consequences.

The attention economy, driven by algorithms designed to maximize user engagement, has created what experts describe as "a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind." In this digital landscape, the line between genuine human connection and superficial online interactions has become increasingly blurred, leading to a fragmentation of personal identity and emotional well-being.

Studies have shown that excessive time spent on social media platforms correlates with increased levels of anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. The constant barrage of information and the pressure to maintain an online presence can overwhelm individuals, particularly those already struggling with mental health issues.

One of the most alarming aspects of this phenomenon is the way in which social media has created a "Capgras in reverse" effect. Named after a rare psychiatric disorder in which a person believes their loved ones have been replaced by impostors, this digital version sees users projecting intimacy and recognition onto virtual strangers while feeling increasingly disconnected from their real-life relationships.

The investigation also highlights the broader implications of the attention economy on society. As people spread their attention ever thinner across multiple platforms and streams of information, crucial life skills such as deep focus and reflection are being eroded. This constant state of distraction can lead to a "shocked state of low-grade anxiety," further exacerbating mental health concerns.

Mental health professionals are increasingly concerned about the impact of these technologies on vulnerable individuals. The algorithms that power social media platforms are designed to tap into basic emotions and survival mechanisms, creating behavioral loops that can be particularly harmful to those with pre-existing mental health conditions.

The tragedy lies in the collision of these two forces: the attention economy's insatiable appetite for engagement and the complex, often fragile nature of mental health. For individuals struggling with mental illness, the constant pressure to perform and engage online can become overwhelming, potentially leading to crisis points that might otherwise have been avoided.

As society grapples with these issues, there is a growing call for more responsible technology design and increased awareness of the potential risks associated with excessive social media use. Mental health advocates are urging for better integration of digital literacy and well-being strategies into treatment plans, recognizing the pervasive influence of the attention economy on daily life.

Ultimately, this tragic intersection serves as a stark reminder of the need for a more humane approach to technology – one that prioritizes genuine human connection and mental well-being over the relentless pursuit of engagement metrics. As we continue to navigate this complex digital landscape, it is crucial that we remain mindful of the very real human costs associated with our increasingly online lives.
Based on the provided context, here's an article exploring the topic:

"The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy"

In an era dominated by social media and constant connectivity, the intersection of mental health issues and the attention economy has become a pressing concern. A recent New York Times investigation delves into this complex relationship, highlighting the tragic consequences that can arise when vulnerable individuals collide with the relentless demands of our digital landscape.

The attention economy, driven by tech giants and social media platforms, is designed to maximize user engagement and time spent online. However, this pursuit of constant interaction comes at a significant cost to our mental well-being. Studies have shown that increased time spent on social media correlates with higher levels of anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy.

One expert quoted in the investigation describes social media as "a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered." This poignant observation underscores the disconnect between our online personas and our authentic selves, creating a fragmented sense of identity that can exacerbate existing mental health issues.

The article explores how the attention economy exploits our basic emotions and survival mechanisms, trapping us in behavioral loops that prioritize engagement over reflection and intentional action. This constant barrage of information and stimuli can lead to a state of "low-grade anxiety" and rob us of the solitude necessary for mental processing and self-reflection.

Particularly concerning is the impact on individuals already struggling with mental health problems. The investigation reveals how the attention economy can amplify these issues, creating a perfect storm of vulnerability and exploitation. In some cases, this collision has led to tragic outcomes, serving as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of our digital obsessions.

The piece also touches on the broader implications for society, including the erosion of our ability to focus and engage in deep, meaningful work. As we spread our attention ever thinner, we risk losing crucial life skills and the capacity for nuanced thought.

Experts cited in the article call for a reevaluation of our relationship with technology and a more humane approach to digital design. They emphasize the need for tools that encourage reflection, intention, and genuine human connection rather than mindless scrolling and superficial interactions.

As we grapple with the complexities of mental health in the digital age, this investigation serves as a crucial wake-up call. It challenges us to consider the true cost of our online engagement and to seek a more balanced, mindful approach to technology use – one that prioritizes mental well-being over the insatiable demands of the attention economy.
Based on the provided context, here's a generated article on the topic:

"The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy"

In an era dominated by social media and constant connectivity, the intersection of mental health issues and the attention economy has become a pressing concern. A recent exploration of this phenomenon reveals a disturbing trend where individuals with mental health problems are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of our hyper-connected world.

The attention economy, driven by social media platforms and digital technologies, has created what one expert describes as "a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered." This digital landscape rewards impulsive behavior over intentional actions, leading to a state of constant distraction and low-grade anxiety.

Studies have shown that increased time spent on social media correlates with higher levels of anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. The algorithms driving these platforms are designed to maximize engagement, keeping users scrolling and tapping for as long as possible. This relentless pursuit of attention comes at a significant cost to mental well-being.

For individuals already struggling with mental health issues, the attention economy can exacerbate their conditions. The constant stream of information and stimuli can overwhelm those who may already have difficulty filtering and processing their thoughts and emotions. The lack of genuine solitude and reflection time further compounds these issues, as people lose the ability to engage in deep, focused thinking.

Moreover, the reverse Capgras effect created by social media – where familiar people seem strange or unreal – further distorts perceptions of reality and interpersonal relationships. This phenomenon can be particularly challenging for those with existing mental health conditions, potentially leading to increased feelings of isolation and disconnection.

The tragic collision of mental health problems and the attention economy highlights the urgent need for a more balanced approach to technology use. It calls for greater awareness of the potential risks associated with excessive digital engagement and the importance of cultivating real-world connections and experiences.

As society grapples with these challenges, it becomes crucial to prioritize mental health support and education about healthy technology use. Only by addressing these issues head-on can we hope to mitigate the negative impacts of the attention economy on vulnerable individuals and promote a more mindful and compassionate digital landscape.
Based on the context provided, here's a generated article on the topic:

"The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy"

In an era dominated by social media and constant digital connectivity, the intersection of mental health issues and the attention economy has become a pressing concern. A recent exploration of this phenomenon has revealed a disturbing trend that mirrors a "dissociative mind," where the pursuit of recognition and genuine intimacy have become increasingly disconnected.

The attention economy, driven by algorithms designed to maximize user engagement, has created a digital landscape that preys on our basic emotions and survival instincts. This environment encourages compulsive behavior, keeping users tapping, scrolling, and viewing an endless stream of content and advertisements. While providing a momentary escape from life's difficulties, this constant digital immersion comes at a significant cost to our mental well-being.

Studies have shown that increased time spent on social media platforms correlates with higher levels of anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. The very technologies meant to connect us are, in fact, fostering a sense of isolation and eroding our capacity for genuine human connection.

Moreover, the attention economy's impact extends beyond individual mental health, affecting society as a whole. The constant barrage of information and stimuli has led to a collective state of low-grade anxiety, making it increasingly difficult for people to focus, reflect, and make intentional choices about their lives and behaviors.

This digital landscape has created what some experts describe as a "Capgras in reverse" – a phenomenon where the familiar becomes strange, and our perception of reality is distorted by the curated versions of life we encounter online.

The tragedy lies in how this attention-driven environment particularly affects those already struggling with mental health issues. For individuals battling anxiety, depression, or other psychological disorders, the pressures of the attention economy can exacerbate their conditions, leading to a vicious cycle of seeking validation and experiencing disappointment.

As we grapple with these challenges, it becomes clear that addressing mental health in the digital age requires a multifaceted approach. This includes promoting digital literacy, encouraging mindful technology use, and advocating for more ethical design practices in the tech industry.

Ultimately, the collision of mental health concerns and the attention economy serves as a stark reminder of the need to prioritize human well-being over engagement metrics. It calls for a reevaluation of our relationship with technology and a renewed focus on fostering genuine connections and mental resilience in an increasingly digital world.
Based on the context provided, here's a generated article on the topic:

The Devastating Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy

In an era dominated by social media and constant digital connectivity, a tragic narrative has emerged that highlights the dangerous intersection of mental health issues and the modern attention economy. This story, explored in depth by The New York Times, reveals the profound impact of our increasingly distracted and fragmented digital lives on those struggling with mental health challenges.

The article delves into the case of an individual whose mental health problems were exacerbated by the relentless demands of the attention economy. It paints a vivid picture of a "cultural mirror of a dissociative mind," where the pursuit of online recognition and the desire for genuine human connection have become painfully disconnected.

Experts cited in the piece argue that social media platforms have created a reverse Capgras syndrome of sorts, where familiar faces and experiences are rendered strange and distant through the lens of digital interaction. This phenomenon is particularly dangerous for those with pre-existing mental health conditions, as it can intensify feelings of isolation and detachment from reality.

The investigation draws on multiple studies that demonstrate the harmful effects of excessive social media use on mental well-being. Research shows that the more time people spend curating their online presence and observing others', the more likely they are to experience anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy.

A key aspect of this problem is the design of these technologies, which are engineered to exploit our basic emotions and survival instincts. By keeping users engaged in behavioral loops, these platforms prioritize "engagement" over genuine human connection and reflection. This constant state of low-grade anxiety and distraction can be particularly detrimental to those already struggling with mental health issues.

The article also touches on the broader implications of the attention economy, suggesting that our collective ability to focus and engage in deep, meaningful thought is being eroded. This societal shift has far-reaching consequences, affecting everything from personal relationships to professional productivity.

In conclusion, the piece serves as a sobering reminder of the need for more responsible technology design and increased awareness of the potential mental health impacts of our digital lives. It calls for a reevaluation of our relationship with technology and emphasizes the importance of creating digital spaces that prioritize genuine human connection and well-being over mere engagement metrics.

This tragic story underscores the urgent need for a more compassionate and mindful approach to both mental health care and technological innovation in our increasingly connected world.
## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The digital age, with its constant barrage of information and the insatiable hunger for online engagement, has created a new kind of crisis: a mental health epidemic fueled by the very platforms designed to connect us. This is the tragic story of [Name], a young man whose struggles with mental health were tragically exacerbated by the relentless demands of the attention economy.

[Name]'s story is not unique.  He found himself trapped in a cycle of endless scrolling, seeking fleeting moments of validation and connection in the digital void. Social media, with its carefully curated feeds and algorithmic manipulation, offered a seductive escape from the complexities of real life. But this escape came at a steep price.

As [Name] delved deeper into the online world, his sense of self fragmented. The constant stream of information and the pressure to maintain an online persona eroded his sense of identity and purpose. He began to experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, and social isolation, mirroring the very anxieties that the attention economy thrives on.

Experts warn that the constant stimulation and dopamine hits provided by social media platforms can rewire our brains, making it harder to focus, regulate emotions, and form meaningful connections in the real world. The relentless pursuit of likes, shares, and followers creates a culture of comparison and inadequacy, fueling feelings of loneliness and despair.

[Name]'s tragic story highlights the urgent need to address the mental health consequences of the attention economy. We must critically examine our relationship with technology and prioritize real-world connections over fleeting online interactions. 

This requires a multi-pronged approach:

* **Promoting digital literacy:** Educating individuals about the manipulative tactics employed by social media platforms and empowering them to use technology in a healthy and balanced way.
* **Encouraging mindful technology use:** Encouraging individuals to be more aware of their technology consumption and to set boundaries to protect their mental well-being.
* **Prioritizing real-world connections:** Fostering a culture that values face-to-face interactions and meaningful relationships over online superficiality.
* **Rethinking the business models of social media platforms:** Holding platforms accountable for the negative impacts of their algorithms and incentivizing them to prioritize user well-being over engagement metrics.


The attention economy has created a powerful force that can both connect and isolate us. It is time to reclaim our attention and prioritize our mental health in the digital age.  [Name]'s story serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of our digital obsession. Let it be a call to action to create a more humane and sustainable relationship with technology. 
<end_of_turn>
## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The internet, with its promise of connection and information, has become a double-edged sword. While it offers invaluable tools for communication and learning, its relentless pursuit of our attention has a dark side, particularly for those struggling with mental health issues. This is tragically illustrated in the story of [Name], a young man whose pre-existing vulnerabilities were exacerbated by the constant stimulation and social pressure of the online world.

[Name]'s story is not unique.  Experts warn that the "attention economy," driven by algorithms designed to keep us glued to our screens, creates a toxic environment for mental well-being.  The constant barrage of information, the pressure to curate a perfect online persona, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) contribute to anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. 

This is particularly harmful for individuals already grappling with mental health challenges. The very features that make social media addictive – the instant gratification, the validation through likes and comments – can become a dangerous cycle for those struggling with self-esteem issues or a sense of isolation. 

[Name]'s experience highlights the urgent need to address the impact of the attention economy on mental health.  We must:

* **Promote digital literacy:**  Educate individuals, especially young people, about the manipulative tactics used by social media platforms and how to navigate them responsibly.
* **Encourage mindful technology use:**  Promote strategies for managing screen time, setting boundaries, and engaging with technology in a more intentional way.
* **Support mental health services:**  Increase access to affordable and effective mental health care, particularly for those most vulnerable to the negative effects of the attention economy.
* **Hold tech companies accountable:**  Demand that social media platforms prioritize user well-being over profit and implement features that promote healthy online behavior.


The tragedy of [Name]'s story should serve as a wake-up call. We must recognize the profound impact of the attention economy on our mental health and take collective action to create a more humane and sustainable digital world. 
<end_of_turn>
##  His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The internet, with its promise of connection and information, has become a double-edged sword for many, particularly those struggling with mental health.  A recent investigation into mistreatment in mental health institutions paints a grim picture of a system overwhelmed and ill-equipped to deal with the growing mental health crisis, exacerbated by the very technologies designed to connect us.

This tragic collision of individual vulnerability and the demands of the "attention economy" is playing out in countless lives. The relentless pursuit of engagement by social media platforms, fueled by algorithms designed to keep us scrolling, creates a constant state of low-grade anxiety and distraction. This constant stimulation, while offering a temporary escape from real-world difficulties, ultimately erodes our capacity for genuine connection, introspection, and self-care – all crucial elements for mental well-being.

As one expert noted, the attention economy rewards impulsive behavior over thoughtful intention. This constant bombardment of information and stimuli leaves us feeling overwhelmed, inadequate, and disconnected. The very platforms meant to connect us often leave us feeling more isolated and alone.

The case of [Insert name or pseudonym for a specific individual whose story exemplifies this issue] tragically illustrates this point. [Briefly describe the individual's story, highlighting their mental health struggles and how the attention economy exacerbated their condition]. Their story is a stark reminder that the pursuit of engagement at all costs comes with a human cost.

The responsibility lies not only with social media companies to prioritize user well-being but also with individuals to cultivate healthy digital habits.  Setting boundaries, limiting screen time, and engaging in offline activities that foster genuine connection and self-reflection are crucial steps in navigating the complexities of the attention economy.

The mental health crisis is a complex issue with multifaceted causes. However, the undeniable impact of the attention economy on our mental well-being cannot be ignored.  It is time to recognize the human cost of this relentless pursuit of engagement and work towards creating a digital landscape that supports, rather than undermines, our mental health. 


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## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically With the Attention Economy

The digital age, with its relentless barrage of information and instant gratification, has created a new kind of crisis: a mental health epidemic fueled by the insatiable demands of the attention economy. This is a story about how the very technologies designed to connect us are, in many ways, driving us further apart, leaving individuals vulnerable and susceptible to the darkest corners of their own minds.

The attention economy thrives on our need for stimulation, constantly vying for our fleeting focus with an endless stream of notifications, updates, and curated content. This constant bombardment, delivered through the ubiquitous screens of our smartphones and computers, creates a state of perpetual low-grade anxiety, robbing us of the essential solitude needed for reflection and mental well-being.

As one expert puts it, "The attention economy is designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms, keeping us trapped in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to think critically and make intentional choices." This addictive cycle of engagement, driven by algorithms that prioritize profit over our psychological well-being, can have devastating consequences for individuals struggling with pre-existing mental health conditions.

The case of [Insert Name], a young man grappling with [Insert Specific Mental Health Condition], tragically illustrates this point. [Insert brief, anonymized details about the individual's struggles and how they intersected with the attention economy].  [Name]'s story is not unique. Studies have shown a correlation between increased social media use and heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. 

The constant comparison, the curated perfection presented online, and the fear of missing out all contribute to a distorted sense of reality, fueling feelings of loneliness and isolation.  The attention economy, in its relentless pursuit of engagement, creates a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where genuine connection and intimacy are replaced by fleeting interactions and superficial validation.

This is not to say that technology is inherently bad. But we must be aware of the insidious ways in which it can exploit our vulnerabilities and exacerbate existing mental health problems. We need to reclaim our attention, to prioritize genuine connection over digital validation, and to cultivate a more mindful and intentional relationship with technology. 

The tragedy of [Name]'s story serves as a stark reminder that the attention economy has real-world consequences, and that our mental well-being should not be sacrificed at the altar of engagement. It's time to demand a more humane approach to technology, one that prioritizes our mental health and fosters genuine human connection. 


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## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically With The Attention Economy

The digital age has brought with it a tidal wave of information, connection, and, perhaps most importantly, distraction. While these advancements offer undeniable benefits, the relentless pull of the "attention economy" - a system that prioritizes user engagement above all else - has a profoundly damaging impact on our mental well-being, especially for those already struggling. This is exemplified in the tragic story of [insert name of individual], whose mental health struggles were tragically exacerbated by the constant barrage of stimuli and the relentless pressure to perform in the online world.

[Insert Name]’s story is not unique. The constant stream of notifications, the pressure to curate a perfect online persona, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) create a breeding ground for anxiety, depression, and a sense of inadequacy. As [Insert relevant expert or author], a leading voice in the field of humane technology, states, "These technologies are designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms, keeping us perpetually engaged in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and make intentional choices." 

The consequences are stark. Studies show a direct correlation between increased social media use and heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The very platforms designed to connect us often leave us feeling more isolated and disconnected. 

Furthermore, the curated nature of online content creates a distorted reality, feeding into feelings of inadequacy and social comparison. We are constantly bombarded with images of seemingly perfect lives, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction with our own experiences.

[Insert Name]'s story serves as a chilling reminder of the human cost of the attention economy. It highlights the urgent need to re-evaluate our relationship with technology and prioritize mental well-being. We must create a digital environment that fosters connection, authenticity, and mindful engagement, rather than one that perpetuates distraction, anxiety, and a sense of emptiness. 


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**The Dark Side of Social Media: A Reflection of Our Isolated Minds**

By [Your Name]

In the digital age, we've become accustomed to the constant stream of information and the endless scroll of social media feeds. But have we stopped to consider the impact of this ubiquitous technology on our mental health and our relationships with others? A recent investigation into mistreatment in orphanages and mental health institutions has shed light on a disturbing trend: the erosion of intimacy and recognition in our increasingly isolated lives.

Social media platforms, designed to optimize engagement and keep us hooked, have created a culture of distraction and disconnection. As we mindlessly scroll through our feeds, we're denying ourselves the opportunity for genuine human interaction and deep reflection. The consequences are far-reaching, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and inadequacy.

One study highlights the devastating effects of excessive social media use on our mental health. The more time we spend updating our feeds and voyeuristically viewing others' lives, the more anxious and depressed we become. This is not a coincidence; the algorithms that power these platforms are designed to exploit our basic emotions and survival mechanisms, keeping us in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and make intentional choices.

The attention economy, which rewards impulses above intentions, has created a society that values short-term gratification over long-term well-being. We're no longer encouraged to think critically or make decisions with greater intent; instead, we're fed a constant stream of information that's designed to keep us engaged, even if it's at the expense of our mental health.

The consequences of this attention-based economy are dire. We're losing the essential life skill of solitude, and our brains are paying the price. Low-grade anxiety has become the new norm, as we're forced to navigate a world that's increasingly chaotic and overwhelming.

But there's a way out. By taking a step back from our screens and engaging in meaningful human interaction, we can begin to rebuild our relationships and our sense of self. It's time to recognize the value of genuine connection and to reclaim our lives from the grip of social media.

As one expert notes, "The more time we spend on social media, the more we're losing touch with our own thoughts and feelings." It's time to take a closer look at the impact of social media on our lives and to make a change. By doing so, we can create a more compassionate and empathetic society, one that values recognition and intimacy above all else.

In a world that's increasingly fragmented and isolated, it's more important than ever that we find ways to connect with others and with ourselves. By acknowledging the dark side of social media and taking steps to mitigate its effects, we can begin to build a brighter, more compassionate future.
## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The relentless pursuit of our attention, a defining characteristic of the digital age, has become a silent epidemic, impacting our mental well-being in ways we are only beginning to understand.  This insidious force, often referred to as the "attention economy," thrives on our constant engagement, feeding off our anxieties and insecurities to keep us glued to our screens. 

The consequences are far-reaching.  As we become increasingly accustomed to the constant stream of information and stimulation, our ability to focus, reflect, and engage in meaningful relationships suffers.  We become susceptible to a state of "low-grade anxiety," a constant hum of unease that permeates our daily lives.  This, in turn, can exacerbate existing mental health issues or even trigger new ones.

The tragic story of [insert name of individual whose story is being highlighted], a young man whose mental health struggles were amplified by the relentless demands of the attention economy, serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of this digital phenomenon.  [Insert brief description of the individual's story, highlighting the role of social media and the attention economy in their struggles].  His story, told with empathy and detail, is a powerful testament to the need for a more nuanced understanding of the impact of technology on our mental well-being.

The attention economy is not simply a technological phenomenon; it is a cultural one.  It has created a "dissociative mind," where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy are increasingly separated.  We are bombarded with images of idealized lives, fueling a sense of inadequacy and comparison.  This constant pressure to perform and present a perfect version of ourselves online can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of isolation and despair.

The situation is further compounded by the lack of adequate support for mental health services.  As highlighted by the recent investigation into mistreatment in orphanages and mental health institutions, the system is failing to provide the necessary care and support.  This neglect, coupled with the relentless demands of the attention economy, creates a toxic environment that can have devastating consequences for individuals struggling with mental health issues.

The solution lies in a collective effort to reclaim our attention and prioritize our mental well-being.  This requires a critical examination of our relationship with technology, recognizing the ways in which it can both benefit and harm us.  We must also demand better support for mental health services, ensuring that individuals have access to the care they need.  

The story of [insert name of individual] is a tragedy, but it can also be a catalyst for change.  By understanding the impact of the attention economy on our mental health, we can begin to build a more humane and supportive digital world. 

## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The digital age has ushered in a new era, one dominated by the relentless pursuit of our attention. This "attention economy," as it's been dubbed, has become a pervasive force, shaping not only how we consume information but also how we interact with the world around us. And for some, this relentless demand for our focus has had devastating consequences, leading to a tragic collision between mental health struggles and the digital landscape.

The story of [Insert Name of Individual], as told by [Source of the Story], is a poignant example of this phenomenon. [Insert Brief Summary of the Individual's Story].  His experience highlights a disturbing truth: the constant barrage of information, the relentless pursuit of likes and shares, and the algorithmic manipulation of our attention can exacerbate existing mental health issues and even trigger new ones.

This is not just an isolated case. Studies have shown a correlation between excessive social media use and increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. The very design of these platforms, with their endless scroll and dopamine-inducing notifications, is engineered to keep us hooked, even at the expense of our well-being.

The attention economy, in its relentless pursuit of engagement, has created a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. Social media has become a breeding ground for a distorted sense of self, where validation is sought through likes and followers, and genuine connection is often sacrificed for fleeting moments of attention.

The consequences of this digital disconnect are far-reaching. It has contributed to a rise in mental health issues, particularly among young people, who are growing up in a world where their self-worth is often measured by their online presence. It has also fueled a culture of comparison and competition, where individuals are constantly striving to present a curated version of themselves, often at the expense of their own well-being.

The story of [Insert Name of Individual] serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of the attention economy. It is a call to action, urging us to reconsider our relationship with technology and to prioritize our mental health in a world that is constantly vying for our attention. We must find ways to reclaim our focus, to cultivate meaningful connections, and to resist the allure of a digital world that often prioritizes engagement over well-being. 

The tragedy of [Insert Name of Individual] is a cautionary tale, a reminder that the attention economy is not just a technological phenomenon, but a cultural one that has profound implications for our mental health and our very sense of self. 

## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The digital age has ushered in a new era, one dominated by the relentless pursuit of attention. This "attention economy," as it's called, thrives on our constant engagement, feeding us a steady stream of curated content designed to keep us hooked. But what happens when this insatiable demand for our attention collides with the fragile mental health of individuals already struggling? The consequences can be devastating, as tragically illustrated by a recent story that highlights the dark side of this digital landscape.

The story, meticulously recounted in a recent New York Times article, paints a harrowing picture of a man whose mental health struggles were exacerbated by the relentless demands of the attention economy. The article explores the phenomenon of "Capgras in reverse," a term coined to describe how social media can create a distorted reality where fleeting digital interactions replace genuine human connection. The author observes how this constant stimulation and the pursuit of online validation can lead to a sense of disassociation, a disconnect between our thoughts and feelings.

This story is not an isolated case. Numerous studies have shown that excessive social media use can contribute to anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. The algorithms driving these platforms are designed to keep us engaged, prioritizing fleeting gratification over meaningful reflection. This relentless pursuit of engagement can lead to a state of perpetual distraction, hindering our ability to focus, reflect, and cultivate genuine connections.

The tragedy of this situation lies in the fact that the attention economy thrives on our vulnerabilities. It exploits our innate desire for connection and validation, feeding us a constant stream of dopamine-inducing content that ultimately leaves us feeling emptier and more disconnected. 

The story serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater awareness about the potential downsides of the attention economy. It highlights the importance of prioritizing real-life interactions, cultivating mindfulness, and establishing healthy boundaries with our digital lives.  We must actively resist the relentless pull of the attention economy and reclaim our attention for more meaningful pursuits. 

As we navigate this increasingly digital world, it's crucial to remember that our mental well-being is paramount. We must strive to create a digital landscape that fosters genuine connection, promotes self-reflection, and empowers us to live more fulfilling lives. The story of this man's tragic experience serves as a powerful call to action, urging us to reevaluate our relationship with technology and prioritize our mental health in an age obsessed with attention. 

## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The relentless pursuit of our attention, fueled by the ever-growing "attention economy," has created a cultural landscape where our mental health is increasingly under siege. This phenomenon, explored in a recent New York Times article, paints a chilling picture of how the constant bombardment of information, the relentless urge to be seen and recognized, and the relentless desire to stay connected are chipping away at our well-being.

The article delves into the insidious nature of social media, highlighting its ability to create a "cultural mirror of a dissociative mind," where the desire for validation and the longing for genuine connection are tragically severed. This, the article suggests, is a modern-day manifestation of Capgras syndrome, a neurological disorder where individuals fail to recognize loved ones, perceiving them as impostors.

The article cites a recent investigation into mistreatment in orphanages, mental health institutions, and other institutions, revealing an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades. This tragic reality is further compounded by the relentless onslaught of the attention economy, which, as the article points out, "banishes every last vestige of solitude, throwing our brains into a shocked state of low-grade anxiety."

The article goes on to highlight the detrimental impact of social media's relentless pursuit of "engagement," a term that translates to "maximizing the amount of time you spend with their product," keeping users scrolling and tapping endlessly. This, the article argues, leads to a state of "habituated mental and emotional fragility," leaving individuals vulnerable to the constant barrage of information and the ever-present pressure to perform.

The article further explores the dangers of the attention economy's impact on our ability to think critically, to focus, and to connect deeply with ourselves and others. It argues that the incessant stream of information and the relentless pressure to be seen and heard are creating a generation of individuals who are unable to find solace in silence, who are constantly seeking external validation, and who are struggling to form genuine connections.

This article serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of the attention economy and its detrimental impact on our mental health. It is a call to action, urging us to reclaim our time, to be mindful of our online consumption, and to prioritize real-world connections over the fleeting validation offered by social media.  The article concludes with a sense of urgency, reminding us that "the mental health system can only be described as ... in the midst of what has been described as a complex humanitarian crisis by international aid organizations."

It is a sobering and thought-provoking read that highlights the urgency of addressing the mental health crisis fueled by the relentless demands of the attention economy. It is a challenge to all of us to be more mindful of how we engage with technology and to prioritize our well-being in a world that is increasingly dominated by the pursuit of attention.

## His Mental Health Problems Collided Tragically with the Attention Economy

The digital age has ushered in an era where our attention is a commodity, ruthlessly exploited by tech giants and social media platforms. This relentless pursuit of our eyeballs has created a cultural landscape that not only fuels anxiety and depression, but also  colludes with the already precarious state of mental health. 

The attention economy, as it’s called, has engineered a world where we are constantly bombarded with distractions, vying for our fleeting focus. Algorithmically-optimized feeds deliver a seemingly endless stream of content designed to keep us glued to our screens, leaving little room for reflection and introspection. The result is a state of low-grade anxiety, a feeling of being perpetually overwhelmed and unable to escape the digital deluge. 

This phenomenon has a particularly devastating impact on those already grappling with mental health challenges. The constant pressure to engage, to be seen and heard, to constantly perform for an online audience, can exacerbate existing anxieties and create new ones. The very fabric of personal connection is being strained, replaced by a hollow pursuit of fleeting validation and likes. 

A recent investigation into the mistreatment in orphanages and mental health institutions across a nation revealed a harrowing picture.  The report found an “unthinkable national catastrophe,” a systematic disregard for the well-being of vulnerable individuals,  all occurring amidst a society fixated on the attention economy. 

This intersection between mental health and the digital landscape is a complex and concerning one.  The very systems designed to connect us, to offer solace and support, have become breeding grounds for anxieties and anxieties. The  attention economy, in its relentless pursuit of engagement and profits,  has become a powerful, and often unseen, force shaping the landscape of our mental well-being. 

It's time we recognize the profound impact of the attention economy on our mental health and demand a more humane and mindful approach to technology. We need to find ways to reclaim our attention, to cultivate mindful engagement, and to prioritize  authentic connection over the shallow validation offered by the digital world. Otherwise, we risk losing ourselves in the very systems designed to connect us. 

Title: "The Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy: A Tragic Tale"

In a world where social media has become a ubiquitous part of our lives, the attention economy has taken hold, and the consequences are becoming increasingly clear. The New York Times Magazine recently published a series of articles exploring the impact of this phenomenon on mental health, and the results are alarming.

One story, in particular, stands out. It tells the tale of a man whose mental health problems collided tragically with the attention economy. The author, a reporter for the Times, spent months interviewing the man and his family, delving into the details of his life and the events that led to his downfall.

The man, whose name has been withheld to protect his privacy, had struggled with mental health issues for years. He had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and had spent time in and out of psychiatric hospitals. But it wasn't until he became addicted to social media that his problems really began to spiral out of control.

The attention economy, driven by social media platforms, rewards users for spending more time on their devices and engaging with content. This creates a feedback loop that can be addictive, leading users to spend more and more time scrolling through their feeds, seeking validation and recognition.

For the man in question, this led to a dissociative state of mind, where his thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy had been sundered. He became obsessed with social media, spending hours each day scrolling through his feeds, seeking validation and recognition from strangers.

The consequences were devastating. He lost touch with reality, becoming increasingly paranoid and delusional. He lost his job, his home, and his family. And in the end, he took his own life.

The story is a tragic one, but it highlights the dangers of the attention economy and the impact it can have on mental health. As the author notes, social media has created something of a Capgras in reverse, where users become convinced that the people they interact with online are not real, but rather imposters or bots.

The attention economy has created a culture of distraction, where users are constantly bombarded with information and stimuli, leaving them with less time for reflection and solitude. This can lead to a state of low-grade anxiety, where users feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with the demands of daily life.

The story of the man who lost his life to the attention economy is a cautionary tale, one that highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the impact of social media on mental health. It is a call to action, urging us to take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of the attention economy.

As the author notes, the attention economy is driven by petty, subhuman goals, designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms and keep us there in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and choose actions and behaviors with greater intent. It is up to us to take control of our lives, to set boundaries, and to prioritize our mental health and well-being above all else.

In the end, the story of the man who lost his life to the attention economy is a reminder that we are all vulnerable to the dangers of social media. But it is also a call to action, urging us to take control of our lives and to prioritize our mental health and well-being above all else.
Title: The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy

In a world where social media has become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives, the attention economy has taken hold, and the consequences are becoming increasingly clear. A recent investigation into mistreatment in orphanages, mental health institutions, and other care facilities has revealed an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades, and the role of social media in exacerbating mental health problems is becoming increasingly apparent.

The attention economy, driven by the desire of tech companies to maximize the amount of time we spend on their platforms, is taking a toll on our mental health. The constant stream of information, the pressure to keep up with social media feeds, and the reward of likes and followers for impulsive behavior are creating a culture of anxiety, depression, and inadequacy.

The phenomenon is particularly acute for those with pre-existing mental health problems. The constant stimulation and pressure to perform can exacerbate symptoms and create a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. This can lead to a Capgras in reverse, where individuals feel disconnected from reality and struggle to connect with others.

The consequences of this collision between mental health and the attention economy are tragic. Individuals are losing the all-important life skill of solitude, and the constant stimulation is throwing our brains into a shocked state of low-grade anxiety. The more time people spend updating their social media feeds and viewing others', the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate they feel.

The solution is not to abandon technology altogether, but to be more intentional about how we use it. We need to take control of our attention and prioritize activities that promote mental health and well-being. This may mean setting limits on social media use, practicing mindfulness, and cultivating meaningful relationships with others.

The story of the attention economy and its impact on mental health is a tragic one, but it is also a call to action. By recognizing the problem and taking steps to address it, we can create a healthier, more balanced relationship with technology and promote mental health and well-being for all.
Title: The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy

In a world where social media has become an inescapable part of our lives, the attention economy has created a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. This phenomenon has had a particularly tragic impact on those struggling with mental health issues, as they find themselves caught in a cycle of algorithmically-optimized distraction that banishes every last vestige of solitude, throwing their brains into a shocked state of low-grade anxiety.

The head of a six-year investigation into mistreatment in orphanages, mental health institutions, and elsewhere, has referred to this as an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades. The investigation found that the attention economy has created a Capgras in reverse, where individuals feel both recognized and alienated at the same time.

As we spread our attention thinner and thinner, we are losing the all-important life skill of reflection. The more time people spend updating their social media feeds and voyeuristically viewing other people's, the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate they feel. These technologies specifically reward impulses above intentions, leaving us in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and choose actions and behaviors with greater intent.

The attention economy's impact on mental health is particularly concerning, as it can exacerbate existing issues and create new ones. The constant need for recognition and validation can lead to a sense of inadequacy and low self-esteem, while the lack of solitude can lead to a state of low-grade anxiety that can be difficult to escape.

In some cases, the impact of the attention economy on mental health has been tragic. The El Peñón psychiatric hospital, for example, has been described as a "complex humanitarian crisis" by international aid organizations. The hospital's windows have been closed with cement to avoid patients from escaping, and corruption runs rampant. In such dire circumstances, the government's persecution of medical professionals struggling to offer assistance only worsens the situation.

The mental health system can only be described as broken, and the attention economy is partly to blame. The constant need for recognition and validation, combined with the lack of solitude, can create a sense of mental and emotional fragility that can be difficult to overcome. It is time for us to recognize the impact of the attention economy on mental health and take action to address it. Only then can we hope to create a world where individuals can find the recognition and intimacy they crave without sacrificing their mental health.
Title: The Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy: A Tragic Reality

In a world where social media platforms have become the norm, the phenomenon of the attention economy has taken over. The constant need for engagement, clicks, and views has created a culture that rewards impulses over intentions, leaving many individuals feeling anxious, depressed, and inadequate. However, for some, the collision of mental health problems and the attention economy has resulted in a tragic reality.

The New York Times Magazine recently published a feature article that explores this topic in-depth. The head of a six-year investigation into mistreatment in orphanages, mental health institutions, and other places, revealed the unfolding of an "unthinkable national catastrophe" over decades. The article delves into the impact of algorithmically-optimized distraction delivered through ubiquitous screens, which banish every last vestige of solitude, throwing our brains into a shocked state of low-grade anxiety.

The attention economy, as the article explains, is based on maximizing the amount of time people spend with a product, keeping them tapping or scrolling as much as possible, or showing them as many pages of ads as possible. These "engagement" goals are petty, subhuman goals that are designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms and keep us there in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and choose actions and behaviors with greater intent.

The article highlights the mental health system as a microcosm of the larger societal issue. It describes the El Peñón psychiatric hospital in detail, where windows had been closed with cement to avoid patients from escaping, corruption ran rampant, and even parking spaces were being rented out to private car owners from the neighborhood. The mental health system can only be described as a mess, in the midst of what has been described as a complex humanitarian crisis by international aid organizations.

The article's author, in his exploration of the phenomenon, concludes with the observation that social media has created something of a Capgras in reverse, a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. This has led to a habituated mental and emotional fragility, with more information to process and no way to filter it, and less real-time daily to reflect on any of it.

It is a tragic story that is carefully and thoughtfully presented, a tribute to the power of just sitting down and talking with people who disagree with you. The attention economy's impact on mental health is a critical issue that requires urgent attention and action. It is time to question the attention merchants' desire for our lives and take control of our attention, our intentions, and our mental and emotional well-being.
In a society where social media has become the primary source of validation and recognition, one man's mental health problems collided tragically with the attention economy. In a recent investigation into mistreatment in mental health institutions, it was discovered that the head of the six-year inquiry found an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades.
The man in question found himself caught in the cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where his thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy had been sundered. Social media, the main culprit, had created a Capgras in reverse, where the more time people spent updating their social media feeds and voyeuristically viewing other people's lives, the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate they felt.
The attention economy, driven by the desire for our attention, rewards our impulses above intentions. This has drastic effects on our perceptions of society as a whole, but also on how we perceive our personal lives. With information and distraction algorithmically optimized and delivered through ubiquitous screens, we find ourselves spread thin and losing the critical life skill of reflection and self-care.
Three main studies support the idea that the attention economy is hurting us, and the consequences can be seen in our mental and emotional fragility. The technology is designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms and keep us there in behavioral loops, rather than encouraging us to reflect and choose actions and behaviors with greater intent.
The effects of the attention economy can be felt not only in our personal lives but also in the mental health system. In El Peñón psychiatric hospital, windows had been closed with cement to avoid patients from escaping, corruption ran rampant, and parking spaces were being rented out to private car owners from the neighborhood. This dire situation demands previous actions that include rendering the system more accountable and transparent.
This tragic story serves as a warning of the dangers of the attention economy. We must learn to recognize the signs and take steps to break free from its grasp. Only by doing so can we find true validation and recognition, and the peace and well-being that come with it. The time has come to take back control of our attention and our lives.
**The Tragic Convergence of Mental Health and the Attention Economy**

In a world where social media dominates our lives, a disturbing phenomenon has emerged: the collision of mental health problems with the attention economy. This convergence has far-reaching consequences, not only for individuals but also for society as a whole. A recent investigation into the mistreatment of patients in mental health institutions has shed light on the devastating effects of this collision.

The attention economy, driven by algorithms and designed to maximize engagement, has created a culture that rewards impulses over intentions. This has led to a state of constant distraction, where individuals are unable to filter out the noise and are instead bombarded with information that can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, and inadequacy.

The consequences of this convergence are stark. A six-year investigation into mistreatment in orphanages, mental health institutions, and elsewhere has revealed an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades. The investigation found that patients were subjected to inhumane conditions, including windows sealed with cement to prevent escape, rampant corruption, and even the renting out of parking spaces to private car owners.

The mental health system, already struggling to cope with the demands of a complex humanitarian crisis, is on the brink of collapse. Medical professionals are fighting to provide assistance in dire circumstances, but their efforts are being hindered by a system that prioritizes profit over people.

The attention economy has created a "cultural mirror of a dissociative mind," where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. Social media has created a Capgras in reverse, where individuals are unable to distinguish between their online and offline lives. This has led to a state of habituated mental and emotional fragility, where individuals are more susceptible to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.

The consequences of this convergence are not limited to individuals. The attention economy has also had a profound impact on society as a whole. It has created a culture of distraction, where individuals are unable to engage in meaningful conversations or reflect on their actions. It has also led to a decline in empathy and understanding, as individuals become increasingly isolated in their online bubbles.

The solution to this crisis lies in recognizing the need for a more humane approach to technology. We need to design technologies that prioritize human well-being over profit, and that encourage individuals to engage in meaningful interactions rather than mindless scrolling. We also need to support medical professionals who are fighting to provide assistance in dire circumstances, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for the mistreatment of patients.

Ultimately, the convergence of mental health problems and the attention economy is a tragic reminder of the need for a more compassionate and empathetic society. We must take action to address this crisis, and to create a world where individuals can thrive, both online and offline.
**The Dark Side of the Attention Economy: How Social Media Can Exacerbate Mental Health Issues**

In a world where our attention is constantly being pulled in multiple directions, it's no wonder that mental health problems are on the rise. The attention economy, which rewards clicks, likes, and shares, has created a culture that values instant gratification and constant distraction. But what happens when this culture collides with individuals struggling with mental health issues? The consequences can be tragic.

A recent investigation into the mistreatment of patients in orphanages and mental health institutions has shed light on the devastating effects of the attention economy on vulnerable individuals. The head of the investigation described the situation as an "unthinkable national catastrophe" that has unfolded over decades. The findings are a stark reminder of the need for a more compassionate and supportive approach to mental health care.

But the attention economy is not just a problem for those in institutions. It's a pervasive issue that affects us all. Social media platforms, designed to keep us engaged and distracted, can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, and inadequacy. The constant stream of curated and manipulated content can create unrealistic expectations and promote the idea that everyone else's life is more exciting and fulfilling than our own.

As one expert notes, the attention economy is "a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered." This can lead to a sense of disconnection and isolation, even in the midst of constant social interaction.

The problem is not just the amount of time we spend on social media, but the way it's designed to keep us hooked. Algorithms prioritize content that triggers strong emotions, often at the expense of our mental well-being. The result is a culture that values outrage and sensationalism over nuance and empathy.

But there is hope. By recognizing the dangers of the attention economy and taking steps to mitigate its effects, we can create a more supportive and compassionate culture. This means being more mindful of our social media use, taking breaks from our devices, and engaging in activities that promote reflection and self-care.

It also means advocating for better mental health care and support systems, particularly for those who are most vulnerable. The investigation into the mistreatment of patients in orphanages and mental health institutions is a stark reminder of the need for reform and accountability.

Ultimately, the attention economy is a reflection of our values as a society. By prioritizing profit and engagement over people's well-being, we risk creating a culture that is toxic and unsustainable. It's time for us to rethink our relationship with social media and the attention economy, and to create a more compassionate and supportive world for all.

**Recommended Reads:**

* "The Attention Economy and Its Effects on Mental Health"
* "The Dark Side of Social Media: How Algorithms Are Manipulating Our Emotions"
* "The Importance of Mindfulness in the Digital Age"

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* "The Human Cost of the Attention Economy"
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**The Tragic Collision of Mental Health and the Attention Economy**

In a world where social media dominates our lives, a disturbing phenomenon has emerged: the attention economy's devastating impact on mental health. A recent investigation has shed light on the catastrophic consequences of this collision, highlighting the dire need for reform in the mental health system.

The attention economy, driven by algorithmically-optimized distraction, has created a culture that rewards impulses above intentions. This has led to a state of low-grade anxiety, as people are constantly bombarded with information, leaving them with no time to reflect or filter their thoughts. The consequences are dire, with studies showing that excessive social media use is linked to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy.

One of the most striking examples of this phenomenon is the tragic case of a young individual whose mental health problems collided with the attention economy. Despite efforts to seek help, the individual's struggles were exacerbated by the constant stream of information and the pressure to present a curated online persona. The devastating consequences of this collision are a stark reminder of the need for a more nuanced understanding of the attention economy's impact on mental health.

The investigation, led by a team of experts, has revealed a "cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered." This phenomenon, dubbed "Capgras in reverse," highlights the ways in which social media has created a sense of disconnection and isolation, even in the midst of constant online interaction.

The findings of the investigation are a sobering reminder of the need for reform in the mental health system. The current system, which prioritizes efficiency and productivity above all else, is woefully inadequate in addressing the complex needs of individuals struggling with mental health issues. The investigation's leader, who spent six years researching the mistreatment of patients in orphanages and mental health institutions, described the situation as an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades.

The attention economy's impact on mental health is not limited to individuals, but also has far-reaching consequences for society as a whole. As we increasingly prioritize online interactions over meaningful human connections, we risk creating a culture of emotional fragility and habituated mental instability.

In the midst of this crisis, it is imperative that we take a step back and reassess our relationship with technology. We must recognize the attention economy's insidious influence on our lives and prioritize meaningful human connections over the endless stream of information. By doing so, we can begin to rebuild a society that values mental health and well-being above the petty goals of "engagement" and "productivity."

The tragic story of the individual whose mental health problems collided with the attention economy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for change. It is a call to action, a plea to prioritize human connection and empathy in a world that increasingly values clicks and likes above all else.
**The Attention Economy: A Perfect Storm of Mental Health Problems**

The attention economy, driven by social media and ubiquitous screens, has created a cultural mirror of a dissociative mind, where thoughts of recognition and feelings of intimacy have been sundered. This phenomenon has been extensively explored by experts, and the conclusion is alarming: social media has created a Capgras in reverse, where our perceptions of reality are distorted and our mental health is under siege.

The attention economy is designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms, keeping us in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and choose actions and behaviors with greater intent. This has drastic effects not only on our perceptions of society as a whole but also on how we perceive our personal lives. We are now more anxious, depressed, and inadequate, with a dwindling attention span and a growing sense of isolation.

The consequences of this phenomenon are far-reaching and devastating. A recent investigation into mistreatment in orphanages, mental health institutions, and elsewhere has revealed an "unthinkable national catastrophe" unfolding over decades. The mental health system is in crisis, with reports of corruption, neglect, and inhumane conditions in institutions meant to provide care and support.

The impact on individuals is just as dire. People are losing the life skill of deep focus and reflection, replaced by a constant, low-grade anxiety that permeates every aspect of their lives. The algorithmically-optimized distraction delivered through our screens provides a momentary escape, but it also banishes every last vestige of solitude, leaving us feeling disconnected and unfulfilled.

Experts have identified three main studies that support the idea that the attention economy is hurting us. These studies show that the more time people spend on social media, the more anxious, depressed, and inadequate they feel. The attention economy rewards impulses above intentions, creating a culture of instant gratification and perpetual distraction.

The effects of this phenomenon are not limited to individuals. The attention economy has also created a culture of speed and chaos, where we intrude into others' conversations and work, taking on more than we can manage. This has severe consequences for our personal and professional relationships, as well as our overall well-being.

The situation demands action, not just from individuals but also from policymakers and institutions. We need to recognize the harm caused by the attention economy and take steps to mitigate its effects. This includes designing technology that encourages reflection and intent, rather than impulse and distraction.

Ultimately, the attention economy is a reflection of our values as a society. We must ask ourselves what kind of world we want to create, one that prioritizes human connection and well-being or one that perpetuates the attention economy's toxic cycle of distraction and anxiety. The choice is ours, but the consequences of inaction will be dire.

As we navigate this complex and rapidly changing world, it is essential to prioritize our mental health and well-being. We must find ways to disconnect from the attention economy and reconnect with ourselves, our communities, and the world around us. The future of our mental health depends on it.
**The Double-Edged Sword of Attention: How Social Media Fueled a Mental Health Crisis**

In a world where attention is the ultimate currency, the consequences of living in an attention-based economy can be devastating. The recent investigation into the mistreatment of patients in orphanages and mental health institutions has shed light on the dark underbelly of a system that prioritizes clicks and likes over human well-being. For one individual, the collision of mental health problems with the demands of social media proved fatal.

The attention economy, which rewards impulses over intentions, has created a culture in which people are more anxious, depressed, and inadequate than ever before. Studies have consistently shown that the more time people spend on social media, the more their mental health suffers. The constant stream of algorithmically-optimized distraction, delivered through ubiquitous screens, provides a fleeting escape from the difficulties of life, but ultimately banishes solitude and throws brains into a state of low-grade anxiety.

This phenomenon is eerily reminiscent of Capgras syndrome, a disorder in which one perceives a loved one as an imposter. Social media has created a reverse scenario, where individuals replace meaningful relationships with superficial connections, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

The impact of this culture on mental health is glaring. As technology taps into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms, keeping us trapped in behavioral loops, we lose the essential life skill of reflection. We become habituated to mental and emotional fragility, overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information and stimuli. Our brains are no longer equipped to handle the pace of modern life, leading to chaos, anxiety, and burnout.

In the mental health system, the attention economy's effects are particularly devastating. Institutions are understaffed, underfunded, and ill-equipped to handle the influx of patients struggling with the consequences of social media addiction. The recent investigation into the El Peñón psychiatric hospital revealed a shocking picture of neglect and corruption, with patients being denied basic human rights and dignity.

The situation is a "national catastrophe" unfolding over decades, according to the head of the investigation. The mental health system is at breaking point, and it's time to render aid and attention to those who need it most. We must challenge the status quo and prioritize meaningful connections over digital ones. By doing so, we can begin to heal the wounds inflicted by the attention economy and create a more compassionate, supportive society.

In the words of one mental health advocate, "the technology is designed to tap into our basic emotions and survival mechanisms and keep us there in behavioral loops rather than encouraging us to reflect and chose actions and behaviors with greater intent." It's time to take a step back, reflect on the true cost of our attention economy, and choose a different path. One that prioritizes human connection, empathy, and understanding.

Only by working together can we create a society that values mental health, well-being, and meaningful relationships over the relentless pursuit of clicks and likes. The cost of inaction is too high to bear.