TikTok as Entertainment or Misleading App?

Case Study , 2021 , 7 Pages , Grade: 3.0

Communications - Mass Media

This essay critically analyzes the popular video-sharing app TikTok and questions whether it should be perceived primarily as an entertainment platform or as a source of misleading content. The author reflects on how TikTok's algorithmically customized feed and divination videos promoted addictive viewing habits and dubious life advice in a friend. However, the app also spreads joy through funny videos. The essay concludes that while TikTok has merit as an entertainment app, users should be cautious of videos that try to deceptively influence major life decisions. Overall, the essay urges readers to approach TikTok with nuance, enjoying its amusing content while maintaining skepticism about guidance from its most exploitative corners.

Table of Contents

• Digging Deep: Is Tik-Tok for Entertainment or Just a Misguided Short Video App?
• The Rise of Tik-Tok
• Misleading People: The Divination Dilemma
• The Negative Impact of Tik-Tok
• Tik-Tok's Positive Impact
• Conclusion

Objectives and Key Themes

This text examines the influence and potential impact of the popular short-video app Tik-Tok. It explores the app's various features, its role in shaping online culture, and its potential for both positive and negative effects on individuals and society.

• The rise and popularity of Tik-Tok
• The prevalence of misleading content, particularly in the form of divination videos
• The potential for Tik-Tok to contribute to negative social interactions and mental health issues
• The positive aspects of Tik-Tok, including its potential for entertainment, education, and community building
• The complexities of navigating the ethical and social implications of Tik-Tok's influence

Chapter Summaries

• Digging Deep: Is Tik-Tok for Entertainment or Just a Misguided Short Video App?: This chapter introduces the author's initial encounter with Tik-Tok and the personal moral crisis she experiences after encountering divination videos. It raises the question of how to perceive Tik-Tok, highlighting the app's dual nature of entertainment and potential for misleading content.
• The Rise of Tik-Tok: This chapter delves into Tik-Tok's rapid rise to popularity, outlining its features, user base, and the role of algorithms in shaping the user experience. It explores the app's potential for promoting creativity and musical expression.
• Misleading People: The Divination Dilemma: This chapter focuses on the phenomenon of divination videos on Tik-Tok and explores its potential for manipulation and harm. The author uses the example of her friend Crystal's experience to illustrate the dangers of taking Tik-Tok divination seriously.
• The Negative Impact of Tik-Tok: This chapter examines the potential negative consequences of Tik-Tok, including its role in spreading misinformation, promoting negative social interactions, and contributing to mental health issues. Examples of bullying and the exploitation of users through online sales are presented.
• Tik-Tok's Positive Impact: This chapter acknowledges the positive aspects of Tik-Tok, such as its potential for entertainment, education, and community building. It highlights the role of government Tik-Tok accounts in disseminating information and facilitating communication.

Keywords

The text focuses on the following key terms and concepts: Tik-Tok, social media, short videos, divination, misinformation, mental health, entertainment, creativity, algorithm, influencer marketing, online sales, and the ethical implications of social media platforms.

• College: University of California, San Diego
• Course: Media Studies
• Grade: 3.0
• Author: John Maish (Author)
• Publication Year: 2021
• Pages: 7
• Catalog Number: V1388986
• ISBN (PDF): 9783346942524
• Language: English
• Tags: Digging Deep, TikTok , Tik-Tok for Entertainment , Short Video App , The Face of a Spider