Do you remember the song "Waterfalls" by TLC? One of its lyrics is "Don't go chasin' waterfalls." That song was released in 1994. Nowadays, there are many more waterfalls. People make videos of themselves chasin' waterfalls. There are more than 20 million waterfall hashtags on TikTok. It seems like people do indeed love following that advice from TLC. Why are so many people attracted to waterfalls?
Some say it is because they look peaceful, serene, and calming. Some say it is because they are beautiful, majestic, and mesmerizing. Many would probably agree that those things are true. Waterfalls can be all those things. But what else might explain why they are so popular?
One theory is that humans have always been fascinated with nature. The beauty of waterfalls could simply reflect our natural affinity for nature. Another theory is that social media allows us to see what other people find interesting. So, when something goes viral, many followers jump on board. Yet another theory is that people like feeling a part of a group or community. Perhaps some users feel connected to each other through their shared appreciation for waterfalls. But is this collective intimacy real or just an illusion created by technology? Are people who post about waterfalls also isolated individuals?
There may be a connection between posting videos about erotic trends online and forming connections with others. In a way, it may mirror ritualistic bonding. Rituals often involve performing repetitive actions together as a group.
Consider religious ceremonies or sports games. Participants in these activities share the same experience and form bonds based on mutual understanding. They may even feel closer to those around them. This sense of belonging is known as "collective intimacy."
When people watch and share sexually-charged content, it can create a similar feeling of closeness. Watching pornographic material is not uncommon, and neither is sharing it with others.
TikTok takes things further by providing anonymity. Users do not need to reveal their identities or locations. They can interact with strangers from anywhere in the world, creating a digital community where eroticism plays a significant role. Still, despite this virtual relationship, they remain physically alone. Can one person truly feel intimate while sitting at home alone in front of a screen? Is there any difference between this type of connection and traditional ritualistic bonding?
Perhaps some would argue that these interactions are meaningless distractions from the loneliness of modern life. Others might say that they provide much-needed relief from stress and anxiety. It could even be argued that this type of interaction creates a false sense of closeness, like the illusion of social media relationships. But perhaps it is just another way to connect with others who share our interests and desires.
It seems clear that online activity influences real-world behavior. Social media has created new ways for people to communicate and share ideas. We have seen how technology impacts politics, culture, education, and business. Perhaps we should also consider its effect on human connections and relationships. How does being part of an online group compare to having face-to-face contact? Do we want to live in a world where everyone feels disconnected but still finds solace through shared passions online? Or maybe we need more in-person conversations and less anonymous chasin' waterfalls.
To what extent does TikTok erotic trend participation mirror ritualistic bonding, allowing users to feel part of a collective intimacy while simultaneously experiencing individual isolation?
One possible explanation for the popularity of sexualized content on TikTok is that it allows individuals to engage in ritualistic behaviors that help them feel connected to a larger community while also providing an opportunity for self-expression and personal exploration. The act of creating and sharing such videos can be seen as a form of social ritual, where participants adhere to specific rules, patterns, and behaviors that create a sense of belonging and familiarity.