Written by Octavia, 2021 Cohort
Before I start our topic today, let me tell you a story that truly happened in China.
The story is about a 96-year-old woman…
Just a few months ago, a short video was trending in China. It was about a 96 years old lady who kept going out every day to sell homemade buns. The buyer in the video asked her why she insists on working at her age. She indicated that it’s a meaningful job for her, and instead of relaxing at home, this job can make her feel fulfilled in life. This video is supposed to be an encouragement to all hard-working people, but it takes a completely different direction just a few days later.
To chase the clout, a huge number of streamers surrounded her stall and stared live-stream. Thousands of cameras and microphones were put in front of the elderly woman, thus no more customers wanted to come up and buy food. The sad thing was that through the camera, no one could see her smile anymore, and after a few months, she decided to close her business which she had run for almost 30 years.
My reflections on this phenomenon
With the rapid development of digital media, using mobile devices to post clips or streams has become a new trend. People enjoy the social profit from spreading viral videos or chasing clout, but always ignore the potential harm to others. The story of the elderly woman is not an individual case. There are also a lot of parents and pet breeders who post prank videos that are shot with their children and pets, even if these pranks might cause harm or leave trauma. Unfortunately, contrary to this trend, the existing laws in most countries lack restrictions and correct guidance on the more detailed parts of digital marketing. As a call to action, I, as a new pre-mdm cohort student in 2021 would like to raise awareness through this short passing thought. Who knows, perhaps readers will feel motivated to take action, as well.