2024 Word Of The Year: Enshittification

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Post on Nov 26, 2024

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2024 Word of the Year: Understanding the Rise of "Enshittification"

The internet, that ever-evolving landscape of trends and memes, has birthed a new contender for word of the year in 2024: "enshittification." While not yet officially crowned by any major dictionary, its rapid rise in usage and cultural relevance warrants a closer look. This article delves into the meaning, origins, and implications of this increasingly popular term.

What Does "Enshittification" Mean?

At its core, "enshittification" describes the process by which something of value is gradually degraded, often intentionally, to maximize profit or control. It's the slow, insidious decline of quality, convenience, or accessibility, leading to a frustrating and ultimately inferior experience. Think of your favorite local diner slowly cutting corners on ingredients, raising prices, and skimping on service until it becomes a shadow of its former self. That's enshitification in action.

The word itself is a portmanteau, a blend of "shit" and "-fication," a suffix indicating the process of making something into something else. This inherently blunt and visceral nature is part of its appeal; it directly and unapologetically addresses the frustration many feel towards the intentional decline of services and experiences.

Origins and Usage:

While the precise origin remains debated, the term's popularization is often attributed to its frequent use within online communities discussing social and economic issues. It resonates deeply with those who've witnessed the decline of public services, the erosion of democratic institutions, and the relentless pursuit of profit over quality.

The word's power lies in its ability to concisely capture a complex process. It's not merely about dissatisfaction; it's about identifying a deliberate pattern of degradation. This makes it a potent tool for expressing outrage and mobilizing action against this systemic trend.

Examples of Enshittification:

Several real-world examples illustrate the concept effectively:

• Streaming Services: The increasing cost and proliferation of ads on streaming platforms, alongside the shrinking libraries of content, perfectly exemplify enshittification. The initial promise of affordable, on-demand entertainment has gradually eroded.
• Social Media Platforms: The algorithmic manipulation, spread of misinformation, and prioritization of engagement over genuine connection on many social media platforms are frequently cited as examples of enshittification.
• Public Transportation: The decline in funding and maintenance of public transportation systems, resulting in overcrowding, delays, and unreliable service, showcases enshittification in the public sector.

Why "Enshittification" is Resonating Now:

The word's rising popularity reflects a growing awareness and frustration with the pervasiveness of this phenomenon. People are increasingly recognizing patterns of deliberate degradation in various aspects of their lives. The bluntness of the term allows for a direct and unfiltered expression of this discontent. It provides a shared vocabulary for discussing a widespread problem.

Beyond the Buzzword:

While "enshittification" might appear as a fleeting internet trend, its underlying message is far more significant. It highlights the need for critical engagement with the systems and institutions that shape our experiences, urging us to demand better and resist the slow decay of what we value. The word serves as a call to action, prompting discussion and potentially influencing positive change.

Conclusion:

Whether or not "enshittification" becomes the officially recognized word of the year, its impact on online discourse is undeniable. Its sharp, direct language captures a widespread sentiment, offering a concise and powerful way to discuss the degradation of services and experiences. Its enduring relevance will likely depend on the continued pervasiveness of the very phenomenon it describes. The future will tell if the word itself becomes as ubiquitous as the problem it identifies.