Lolcow Theory of the Internet
3 hours ago
- The author observes a recurring pattern across social media platforms like 'schizogram' and elderly Instagram, where viewers feel superior to naïve posters.
- These dynamics create 'lolcows'—individuals who are ridiculed or controlled by viewers, exemplified by figures like Joshua Block.
- The power asymmetry between viewer and poster is central, objectifying subjects and preventing reciprocity, as noted by Susan Sontag.
- All influencers experience audience capture, making them lolcows to varying degrees, with some more overtly exploited than others.
- Some lolcows are unaware of their role, including the elderly or cross-cultural subjects viewed as 'quaint' or 'provincial.'
- The rise of 'lolcow lite' content coincides with a perceived loss of control online, offering viewers a sense of agency.
- AI-generated profiles now mimic naïveté, exploiting the lolcow aesthetic for engagement, while public posts become vulnerable to harm.
- The author calls for 'respect'—meaning 'to look back'—to treat others as equals and avoid reducing everyone to a spectacle.
- The piece ends with a list of upcoming speaking events by the author.