Uploaded September 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Sofia examines how social media influences attention, cognition, identity, and self-worth. It explores the role of dopamine and algorithms in encouraging continuous engagement and highlights the importance of three essential skills: directing attention, thinking critically, and developing self-awareness. Ultimately, it argues that conscious technology use is essential for maintaining personal freedom and identity. I am a high school senior in the chemical-biological program, interested in understanding how the world and society work and in creating positive change by leaving a meaningful impact. I enjoy reflecting, writing, traveling, exercising, and trying a bit of everything. Something people don’t usually know about me is that I’m good at dancing, writing, and sports. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx
Sofia examines how social media influences attention, cognition, identity, and self-worth. It explores the role of dopamine and algorithms in encouraging continuous engagement and highlights the importance of three essential skills: directing attention, thinking critically, and developing self-awareness. Ultimately, it argues that conscious technology use is essential for maintaining personal freedom and identity. I am a high school senior in the chemical-biological program, interested in understanding how the world and society work and in creating positive change by leaving a meaningful impact. I enjoy reflecting, writing, traveling, exercising, and trying a bit of everything. Something people don’t usually know about me is that I’m good at dancing, writing, and sports. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx
