Kirtiman Gopanayak's Blog

Lesser-Known Harms of Social Media Lesser-Known Harms of Social Media Social media is more than just a platform for connection - it can also be a breeding ground for subtle and often overlooked dangers. Here, we break down five lesser-known harms, explain how they typically occur, how to recognize them, ways to recover, and prevention strategies, along with real-world examples. 1. Stalking How It Happens: Perpetrator identifies a target on social media Begins monitoring posts, stories, check-ins, and tagged photos May escalate to sending persistent messages, threats, or even hacking devices to track activity Rule of Thumb to Recognize: Unwanted, repeated contact from someone online Requests for personal info, or knowledge of your activities/location that you haven’t shared directly Feeling w...

Psychological Manipulation in Online Chats Psychological Manipulation in Online Chats Psychological manipulation in online chats often starts subtly and escalates through recognizable stages. The process unfolds naturally because manipulators exploit common social dynamics-like empathy, the desire for connection, and conflict avoidance-making their tactics feel like normal relationship developments until patterns become clear. Here’s a formulaic breakdown of how manipulation typically progresses, with a mild, non-inflammatory example woven through each stage. The Formulaic Progression of Manipulation Stage Manipulative Tactic Example in Online Chat What to Watch For 1. Guilt Trips Inducing guilt "I guess I’m just not important enough for you to reply quickly." You feel bad for normal behavior ...

How and Why Online Deviant Behavior Progresses How and Why Online Deviant Behavior Progresses: A Formulaic Breakdown Online deviant behavior often unfolds in a predictable sequence, escalating from seemingly benign actions to collective condemnation. This progression is driven by psychological, social, and technological factors unique to digital environments, such as anonymity, group dynamics, and the rapid spread of information. Below is a formulaic breakdown of how this cycle typically occurs, with a mild, non-inflammatory example to illustrate each stage. The Five-Stage Progression 1. Virtue Signaling Definition: Publicly expressing opinions or sentiments to demonstrate one's good character or moral correctness, often to gain social approval. Example: On a community forum, someone posts, "I always bring reusable bags to the grocery store because I care about the environment." Recognition: Look for sta...

Para-synonyms: Differences and Formulaic Usage Para-synonyms: Differences and Formulaic Usage Below is a detailed explanation of the nuanced differences between each pair of para-synonyms, along with a formulaic way to use them correctly in sentences. 1) Broad / Wide Difference : Both refer to large distance from side to side, but "wide" is more about the measurable distance between two sides (e.g., a wide street), while "broad" can refer to amplitude or extent, and is often used metaphorically (e.g., broad shoulders, broad smile). Formula: Use "wide" for measurable physical distances: "The river is wide enough for boats." Use "broad" for physical or metaphorical expanses: "She has a broad knowledge of history." 2) Cunning / Clever Difference : "Clever" implies intelligence and creativity in solving problems, with ...

Paronyms Explained Understanding Paronyms Here is a detailed explanation of the differences between each pair of paronyms, along with a formulaic way to use each term: 1. Alternately vs. Alternatively Alternately : Means "in turns," switching back and forth between two states or actions. Formula: [Action 1] alternately with [Action 2] Example: The lights flashed alternately red and green. Alternatively : Means "as another option or possibility." Formula: [Statement]. Alternatively, [other option]. Example: You can take the bus. Alternatively, you could walk if the weather is nice. 2. Authoritative vs. Authoritarian Authoritative : Having or showing expert knowledge; commanding respect through expertise and fairness. Formula: [Person/Source] is authoritative on [topic]. Example: She gave an authoritative lecture on climate change. Authoritarian ...

Comprehensive Fallacy Reference Comprehensive Fallacy Reference I. Fallacies of Definition and Category People make these fallacies by manipulating definitions, shifting terms, or making claims based on biased or circular reasoning. 1. Begging the Question / Circular Reasoning Definition: Assuming the conclusion within the premises; using the claim as its own proof. Formulaic Construction: [X] is true because [X] is true (or because [Y], which assumes [X]). Example: "Reading is good for you because it’s healthy to read." Formulaic Counter: “You’re assuming what you’re trying to prove. Can you provide independent evidence for [X]?” Cunning Counter: “So your proof for [X] is just [X] in disguise? That’s like saying ‘I’m right because I say so.’ Try again with actual evidence.” 2. No True Scotsman Fallacy Definition: Arbitrarily redefining terms to exclude counterexamples and ...