Oxford and Cambridge’s Words of the Year 2024 : “Brain Rot” and “Manifest”
Oxford and Cambridge’s Words of the Year 2024 : “Brain Rot” and “Manifest”
This blog is part of the Sunday reading task assigned by the head of the Department of English (MKBU) , Dr. Dilip Barad Sir.
What are the social, cultural, or psychological contexts behind the selection of these words?
“Brain Rot”: Oxford’s Word of the Year 2024:
Introduction:
Each year, Oxford University Press selects a Word of the Year that captures the essence of contemporary society. In 2024, the chosen term is “Brain Rot,” a phrase that vividly reflects growing concerns about the impact of excessive consumption of low-quality digital content. Widely popularised by younger generations, “Brain Rot” encapsulates the collective awareness of how mindless scrolling through trivial online material affects mental clarity, critical thinking, and overall cognitive health. This choice not only highlights a cultural shift in how we perceive digital habits but also sparks conversations about the importance of mindful engagement in the information age.
Definition and Origin:
“Brain Rot” is defined as “the supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered to be trivial or unchallenging.”
The term’s earliest recorded use dates back to 1854 in Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden,” where he critiques society’s preference for simplicity over complex ideas, likening it to a decline in intellectual effort.
Cultural Significance:
In the digital era, “Brain Rot” has gained prominence, especially among Generation Z and Generation Alpha. It describes the consumption of low-quality online content, such as memes and short videos, that offer immediate gratification but little intellectual value. This trend has sparked discussions about the effects of digital media on cognitive health.
The term’s usage increased by 230% between 2023 and 2024, indicating a societal shift towards recognizing and critiquing the consumption of trivial online content.
Psychological Implications:
Excessive -quality digital content can lead to decreased attention spans, reduced critical thinking, and impaired memory. Neurologists express concern that such content may weaken neural connections responsible for critical thinking and empathy, potentially leading to sleep disturbances and physical inactivity.
The term “Brain Rot” encapsulates these concerns, serving as a cautionary label that prompts reflection on digital consumption habits and their impact on mental health.
Conclusion:
The selection of “Brain Rot” as Oxford’s Word of the Year underscores the importance of mindful engagement with digital content. It encourages individuals to seek meaningful and enriching online experiences, fostering a healthier relationship with technology in an increasingly digital world.
“Manifest”: Cambridge’s Word of the Year 2024
Introduction:
Cambridge Dictionary has named “Manifest” its Word of the Year for 2024, reflecting the growing cultural fascination with the practice of manifesting. While traditionally meaning “clear or obvious,” “Manifest” has evolved in contemporary usage to signify the act of visualizing and affirming one’s goals to bring them to fruition. This selection highlights the global rise of positive thinking trends, driven by social media and a collective desire for self-empowerment during uncertain times. “Manifest” encapsulates both the optimism and intentionality that define modern aspirations, making it a fitting word for today’s pursuit of personal growth and agency.
Definition and Evolution:
At its core, “Manifest” means “clear or obvious to the mind or eye.” Historically, the term dates back to the 14th century and has been used in legal, philosophical, and religious texts to denote clarity or revelation.
However, in recent years, the verb form of “Manifest” has become synonymous with the self-help practice of “Manifesting.” This involves actively visualizing and affirming one’s goals or desires with the belief that such focused energy can bring them into reality. It’s a term that has grown beyond its roots to embody modern concepts of self-determination, optimism, and the power of the mind.
Cultural Context:
Rise in Popularity:
The practice of manifesting gained traction through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencers, celebrities, and ordinary users alike share stories of how visualization and positive thinking led to personal success. This movement has amassed billions of views under hashtags such as #ManifestYourDreams and #ManifestationJourney.
In uncertain global contexts, such as economic instability, climate anxiety, and the lingering effects of the pandemic, manifesting resonates with a collective need for hope and control. It acts as a counterbalance to a world where external circumstances often feel overwhelming, offering individuals a sense of agency through inward focus.
Historical and Cultural Roots:
While “Manifesting” has become a buzzword in the 21st century, its roots trace back to older philosophical and spiritual traditions. Practices like visualization in sports psychology, the Law of Attraction popularized by books like The Secret, and even meditation techniques in Eastern philosophies all emphasize the connection between mental focus and external outcomes.
Manifesting also reflects a cultural shift toward individualism and self-empowerment. In a society increasingly driven by personal branding and achievement, manifesting aligns with the narrative that we can create our own destinies through intention and effort.
Psychological Implications:
Positive Thinking and Motivation:
Psychologists note that manifesting can be a powerful tool for motivation. Visualization of success can activate neural pathways associated with goal achievement, boosting confidence and encouraging proactive behaviour.
Risks of Overreliance:
However, experts warn against the pitfalls of over-relying on manifesting without action. When individuals focus solely on imagining outcomes without taking concrete steps, they risk falling into patterns of magical thinking or experiencing frustration when results don’t materialize.
Manifesting as a Coping Mechanism:
In psychological terms, manifesting can also function as a coping mechanism. It encourages individuals to focus on what they can control—their mindset—during periods of uncertainty. However, it’s important to balance optimism with realism to avoid setting unattainable expectations.
Expert Critiques:
Practical Application:
Critics argue that manifesting oversimplifies the complex interplay between effort, opportunity, and external factors like privilege and systemic inequality. While it promotes a proactive mindset, it can inadvertently place undue pressure on individuals, implying that failures stem from a lack of effort or belief.
Science and Skepticism:
The scientific community remains divided on manifesting’s effectiveness. While the placebo effect and the power of positive thinking are well-documented, skeptics emphasize that correlation does not equal causation. Success stories often overlook the hard work and external circumstances that contribute to outcomes.
Broader Reflections on Society:
Language and Trends:
The choice of “Manifest” reflects the evolution of language in the digital age. Words are no longer confined to traditional meanings; instead, they expand and adapt to new contexts, shaped by cultural trends and social media.
Individual vs. Collective Focus:
The emphasis on manifesting also raises questions about the balance between individual empowerment and collective responsibility. While it’s empowering to believe in personal agency, societal change often requires collaborative efforts that go beyond individual intentions.
Conclusion:
The selection of “Manifest” as Cambridge’s Word of the Year encapsulates the zeitgeist of 2024—a blend of hope, aspiration, and the search for control in an unpredictable world. While the practice of manifesting has its merits in fostering optimism and goal-setting, it serves as a reminder of the need to pair intention with action.
As language continues to evolve, words like “Manifest” highlight how deeply our communication reflects societal values and personal aspirations. The journey of this word—from clarity and revelation to self-help mantra—illustrates the transformative power of language in shaping how we think, dream, and strive for a better future.
Personal Reflections:
Observing the pervasive nature of “Brain Rot,” I recognise moments where mindless scrolling through social media has led to a sense of mental fatigue and diminished productivity. This awareness has prompted a conscious effort to curate my digital environment, seeking content that is both informative and intellectually stimulating.
The concept of “manifest” resonates with my aspirations for personal growth. Engaging in practices that involve setting clear intentions and visualizing success has provided a structured framework for achieving goals. However, it is essential to balance such practices with actionable steps, acknowledging that visualisation must be accompanied by effort and perseverance.
Cultural and Societal Contexts:
The emergence of “Brain Rot” as a widely recognised term underscores societal concerns about the quality of content consumed in the digital age. It reflects apprehensions regarding the potential cognitive decline associated with passive engagement in online environments saturated with superficial material. This discourse invites a reevaluation of digital consumption habits and the promotion of more enriching content.
Conversely, the popularity of “Manifest” highlights a cultural shift toward introspection and self-empowerment. In an era marked by global challenges and uncertainties, the practice of manifesting represents a proactive approach to personal development, emphasizing the power of positive thinking and intentionality.
Impact on Thought and Communication:
The terms “Brain Rot” and “manifest” influence contemporary discourse by encapsulating complex phenomena into concise expressions. “Brain Rot” serves as a cautionary label, prompting discussions about the quality of digital content and its effects on mental health. It encourages critical evaluation of online engagement and advocates for mindful consumption.
“Manifest,” on the other hand, inspires conversations about self-efficacy and the psychology of goal setting. It reflects a societal inclination toward empowerment through mindset, influencing how individuals articulate their aspirations and approach challenges.embodies the pursuit of self-improvement and intentional living, advocating for a proactive approach to realising one’s potential.
Conclusion: A Reflection of Modern Realities
The Words of the Year for 2024—“Brain Rot” by Oxford and “Manifest” by Cambridge—encapsulate two contrasting yet interconnected aspects of contemporary life. “Brain rot” serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the mental toll of excessive digital consumption and the need for mindfulness in navigating the online world. In contrast, “manifest” reflects a collective yearning for self-determination, optimism, and the belief in shaping one’s reality through intentional effort and positive thinking.
Together, these words illustrate the complexities of our times: the challenges posed by an overwhelming digital culture and the enduring human desire to find meaning, purpose, and control in a rapidly changing world. They remind us that language not only mirrors societal trends but also offers a lens through which we can better understand and navigate the world around us.
References:
1. Oxford University Press. “Brain Rot Named Oxford Word of the Year 2024.” Oxford Languages, 2024, https://corp.oup.com/news/brain-rot-named-oxford-word-of-the-year-2024.
2. Cambridge University Press. ”‘Manifest’ Is the Cambridge Dictionary Word of the Year 2024.” Cambridge Dictionary, 2024, https://www.cambridge.org/news-and-insights/word-of-the-year-2024.
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