What “The Social Dilemma” Taught Us About Technology

If you’ve ever caught yourself endlessly scrolling through Instagram or checking Facebook for the fifth time in an hour, The Social Dilemma (2020) might feel like a wake-up call. Directed by Jeff Orlowski, this documentary-drama hybrid takes a hard look at how social media platforms are designed to keep us hooked—and the consequences of that obsession. It’s eye-opening, uncomfortable, and maybe a little terrifying.

One of the key takeaways from the film is that social media companies are not just offering a free service; they’re selling us. Former Silicon Valley insiders, who helped create many of these platforms, explain how our data is the product. Algorithms learn our habits—what we like, share, and click on—to keep us engaged for as long as possible. Why? Because the more time we spend online, the more ads they can serve us, and the more money they make.

While that might sound like good business, the film highlights the darker side: the way these algorithms manipulate our behavior. They don’t just predict what we’ll click on—they influence it. Ever notice how your feed seems tailor-made for you? That’s the algorithm feeding you content it thinks you’ll engage with. It’s convenient, sure, but it also creates echo chambers, reinforcing our existing beliefs and polarizing society.

Perhaps the most unsettling point The Social Dilemma makes is its link between social media use and mental health issues, especially in young people. The rise of platforms like Instagram and Snapchat coincides with a sharp increase in rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide among teens. The film doesn’t blame social media alone but argues that the constant comparison, validation-seeking, and curated perfection of online lives take a toll on users, especially those still figuring out who they are.

So, what do we do with this information? The movie doesn’t offer a simple fix but suggests practical steps. Turning off notifications, limiting screen time, and being intentional about what you engage with online are small ways to regain control. The experts also call for systemic change, like better regulations and ethical design principles, to make these platforms less exploitative.

But the most powerful takeaway might be the reminder that technology isn’t inherently evil—it’s the way it’s used that matters. Social media has connected people, spread awareness, and even sparked revolutions. The challenge is finding a way to balance its benefits with its risks.

The Social Dilemma isn’t a comfortable watch, but it’s a necessary one. It’s a call to rethink our relationship with technology—not just as individuals but as a society. If nothing else, it’ll make you think twice before reaching for your phone again.