Post-Apocalyptic Perception of Modern Society: A Thought Experiment

The question of how post-apocalyptic minds would perceive modern humanity can serve as a fascinating thought experiment. While the notion seems absurd, it offers a unique insight into our current societal structures, education, and entertainment systems. This essay aims to explore the idea through a hypothetical scenario that might help us understand ourselves better.

Modern Society's Educational Framework

Imagine a world where society has collapsed, and the remnants of today's culture must be viewed through the eyes of a new generation. In the pre-apocalyptic era, humans were born into a world where their early days were spent in places called 'kindergartens,' where they were introduced to entertainment through visual and audio media such as 'YouTube Kids.' These 'kids' media were known for their simplistic and often childlike content. This was a stark contrast to the entertainment world of adults, which was a mix of complex and often unintelligible narratives.

The next stage of development was 'school,' where the concept of learning was regimented and standardized. 'Teachers' were charged with explaining complex ideas in a manner suitable for unprepared minds. However, the curriculum was often disconnected from the reality of the students' lives, making it difficult for them to apply what they learned in practical situations. This was further compounded by the frequent testing that came at regular intervals, typically every 'week.' The goal of these tests was not to improve understanding but to ensure rote learning. Failure in these tests could lead to a life of redundancy, where children were forced to study more or to face the loss of recreational activities.

Economic and Social Systems

The educational system had a direct impact on the way society functioned. Upon graduating from school, individuals entered the workforce, where they adhered to a rigid 'day' of activities based on the rotation of the Earth. This cycle involved work, social interactions, and leisure time dominated by media consumption. Work was the primary source of 'money,' which was a societal approval measurement. The work-life balance was carefully regulated to maintain order and productivity.

During their free time, individuals engaged in various forms of media designed to produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This included stories and social media communication systems that provided a distorted view of reality, often based on a single perspective without complex relational systems. Individuals further engaged in activities that reinforced their 'opinions' and sought approval from others through mentions, likes, and shares.

Aspects of Modern Society's Complexity

One interesting aspect of the educational systems was the vague nature of the 'working day' cycles. This system did not provide precise directions, leading to a spectrum of activities and experiences. There was a small portion of people who desired deeper understanding and new experiences. Through the chaos of the world, these individuals emerged as leaders, guiding the fragmented society to a more organized state. Their wisdom, gathered through constant analysis, often moved the society towards a more structured and coherent direction. However, the societal structures of the pre-apocalyptic era were too primitive to survive the great filters of human history.

It is important to note that the scenario presented is purely speculative and should not be taken as a serious analysis of reality. Yet, by examining the various aspects of modern society through the lens of a post-apocalyptic view, we may gain a better understanding of our current societal dynamics and the importance of adaptability and resilience.