Puffing Pixels
Netflix is the socially acceptable form of cigarettes.
A bustling Starbucks in the heart of Frankfurt. There’s the sweet, seductive smell of the latest Pumpkin Spice Latte, and of course, the scene of two besties, Ben and Mira, taking the world's problems head-on — right after they sort out their own.
Ben: Fumbling with his cigarette. “You know, it's ironic. Here I am, getting side-eyed for trying to light up, while you're drowning in that steamy world of Netflix drama, and no one bats an eye!”
Mira: Peeking over her tablet. "Well, maybe 'cause my binge-watching doesn’t mean you need to wear a gas mask?”
Ben: "Oh, the shade! But rewind a bit. Remember when smoking was all James Dean and Marilyn Monroe? Everyone wanted a piece of that puff. And now? I'm the villain. Meanwhile, you’re lost in ‘After’ and it’s all cute and trendy."
Mira: “Excuse me for finding joy in movies and not in, you know, slowly destroying my lungs.”
Ben: “Ah, but what about the destruction of your...sanity? Seen some folks (ahem, YOU) almost lose it when the Wi-Fi’s down during a cliffhanger."
Mira: "Ha! Very dramatic, Ben. Last I checked, Netflix never gave anyone bad breath or yellow teeth."
Ben: "Sure, but ever thought about those virtual dark circles? Looks to me like that couch, and you have become quite the besties."
Mira: "At least I socialize! Netflix shows are conversation starters!"
Ben: "Just like cigarettes were back in the 50s! 'Got a light?' was the original 'Seen any good shows lately?'"
Mira: "Everything's good in moderation, smarty pants."
Ben: "True, true. But tell that to your 'just one more episode' at 3 am."
Mira: "And tell that to your 'just one more ciggie' every half hour."
Ben: "Touche. We all have our vices, don’t we? Some just have cooler soundtracks.”
Mira: "And some, unfortunately, come with ash."
In a Nutshell (or a Coffee Cup, for that matter).
Netflix vs. Cigarettes: A Debate as Heated as Your Favorite Latte Sheds Light on Society's Shifting Perceptions. Just as smoking was once considered sophisticated and later recognized for its adverse health effects, binge-watching is now a socially acceptable pastime, but its long-term effects are still unfolding.
Times change. Society’s perceptions are often molded by trends, cultural shifts, and emerging research. Just as smoking once had its glory days and faced subsequent criticism, binge-watching may one day face a similar trajectory (like the trajectory of our future C-Shaped Spine). It's a reminder to consume media thoughtfully, much like savoring a scoop of your favorite ice cream rather than gobbling down the whole tub. Carve out your own little 'watching moments' and promise yourself to stick to them.
Let’s be aware of our habits, and recognize that what's socially acceptable isn't always what's best for us.
