The Illusion of Social Media and Buddhism: How the "Virtual Lives" of YouTubers and TikTokers Inspire Modern Spiritual Practice?
On platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, we encounter meticulously edited "perfect" videos every day: luxury cars, high-end watches, lavish homes, ideal physiques, and outrageous entertainment. Both creators and viewers know that these often do not represent the entirety of their real lives.
Yet, despite knowing this, we are still moved by these images: envying others for living "better" and doubting our own worth; experiencing emotional highs and lows. This is a modern manifestation of what Buddhism refers to as "perverted thoughts."
🔹 How Does Buddhism View "Illusion"?
The Buddha said in the "Diamond Sutra": "All conditioned phenomena are like a dream, an illusion, a bubble, a shadow; like dew or lightning, one should contemplate them in this way."
"Conditioned phenomena" refer to all phenomena that arise from conditions, including social media videos, influencer personas, and even our own reputation and status;
"Like a dream, an illusion, a bubble" describes these phenomena as existing but lacking a fixed, unchanging essence, as transient and easily dissipated as dreams, shadows, or morning dew.
If one is unaware of the illusion and clings to appearances, it leads to increased afflictions; if one understands the illusion, they can let go and maintain a peaceful mind.
🔹 Social Media Videos as the Best Teaching Material for Illusion
The "scripted lives" in YouTube/TikTok videos are a concrete representation of what Buddhism calls "illusion";
Modern technology makes illusions more enticing than in ancient times: high-definition visuals, AI effects, virtual filters provide an almost lifelike experience;
The valuable aspect is that modern individuals possess the common sense to "know this is fake," which allows for a better understanding of the Buddhist concept of "illusion."
🔹 Modern Buddhist Practice Tips
Know the illusion, do not cling to the truth: Remind yourself while watching videos that "it's just edited," and view it as you would a movie, without getting involved.
Mindful observation: When feelings of envy, anxiety, or comparison arise, immediately recognize "I am being influenced by these images."
Cherish reality: No video, no matter how beautiful, can replace your current breath, feelings, and efforts; practice returning to the present.
Experience impermanence: How long can a viral video keep an influencer famous—days, months? Impermanence cannot be eternal; return to a state of equanimity.
Stay away from perversion: Buddhism teaches "do not see any phenomenon as permanent," helping us reduce greed, anger, and ignorance arising from attachment to illusions.
Cultivate kindness: In the face of influencers' flashiness or exaggeration, maintain goodwill: "May they be safe and happy, free from the suffering of fame and fortune."
Be content and grateful: Recognize your own conditions and blessings rather than only seeing the "better" in others' videos.
Avoid excessive comparison: If your heart is stable, you can be happy and at ease even without luxury cars or high-end watches.
Maintain wisdom: Distinguish between truth and falsehood, reality and illusion on social media, and avoid being easily brainwashed or following trends.
Stay grounded in your thoughts: Regardless of what extravagant content you see, return to your inner peace and brightness.
Use the illusion to cultivate the truth: Understanding the impermanence of illusions reminds you of the importance of practice, accumulating genuine blessings.
Aspire to benefit others: Share Buddhist perspectives to help others affected by illusions find balance.
🪷 Conclusion
In the age of social media, "illusion" is more pronounced than ever. Buddhism not only reminds us that "all is like a dream, an illusion," but also provides wisdom on how to face these illusions: not by rejecting or escaping, but by seeing clearly, being aware of the present, and cherishing reality.
Moving from "seeing through illusions" to "letting go of attachments" is the best spiritual practice for modern individuals facing the world of YouTube and TikTok.
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