worldwideincrease of uniformity in thoughts and behaviors
In the modern era, the concept of "toxic global conformism" has emerged as a pressing concern, although it is not a widely established academic term. This phenomenon refers to the rapid, often coercive spread of ideas that demand conformity to powerful organizations, leading to potentially harmful consequences.
The last few years, coinciding with the Covid-19 pandemic, have seen a stark example of this trend. The speaker expressed shock at the sudden worldwide mass mind that emerged during this period, characterised as a form of global conformism. This mass mind, driven by social media and the internet, has amplified the pace of global conformism, leading to the swift adoption of policies and norms across borders.
One such example is the rapid dissemination of Covid-19 vaccination policies. The Billy Graham Center at Wheaton College created the website "Coronavirus and the Church" to promote vaccinations and governmental Covid policies. Even religious figures like Franklin Graham, notably, declared that Jesus would get a Covid shot. However, this rapid implementation of conformity raises questions about the suppression of alternative practices or dissent.
The problem for many, including Japanese people and citizens of other nations, is not conformity to their own society and culture, but to powerful international organizations like the United Nations (UN) and the World Economic Forum (WEF). Rick Warren, a bestselling author and megachurch leader, has ties with both the WEF and the UN, highlighting the influence of these organizations in shaping global norms.
The new global conformism has also infiltrated traditional religious worlds, as documented in the book "Shepherds for Sale". This trend is not unique to the Covid-19 pandemic; innovative, beneficial medical practices in the West have been adopted by many Korean and Japanese doctors.
Moreover, the term "diversity" and "sustainability" have quickly been adopted in business and educational circles in Japan, despite being vague and irrational for many. This rapid adoption highlights the power dynamics at play, with dominant economic or political interests driving the spread of certain ideas.
In a broader sense, the global diffusion of ideas—be it environmental regulation, gender norms, or chemical safety—shows a dynamic where powerful organizations or coalitions impose standard frameworks with varying levels of acceptance, adaptation, or resistance. This phenomenon reflects both the benefits and risks of interconnectedness, where ideas and mandates spread quickly but may lead to "toxic" conformity when dissent is marginalized or harmful practices are institutionalized under the guise of progress.
For instance, in the international environmental sphere, powerful organizations and treaties attempt to eliminate toxic substances globally. However, compromises such as exemptions allowed for certain toxic chemicals highlight tensions between global conformity to health/environmental norms and the influence of industry pushing back. This reflects how rapid spread and enforcement of ideas—here chemical safety norms—can both protect and be undermined because of power dynamics in international society.
In conclusion, while "toxic global conformism" as a phrase is not widely established, the history and impact of the rapid spread of ideas enforced by powerful bodies illustrate complex dynamics of control, influence, and resistance inherent in global governance and social systems. As we navigate this interconnected world, it is crucial to critically examine these dynamics and strive for a balance that fosters progress without suppressing dissent or promoting harmful practices.
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- Sociological articles have delved into the concept of 'toxic global conformism', although it remains an under-researched academic term in certain circles.
- In education-and-self-development platforms, discussions on personal-growth and social-media's role in fostering 'toxic global conformism' have gained traction among users.
- The rapid spread of policies and norms in the casino-and-gambling industry, particularly in terms of regulation and legislation, is another example of 'toxic global conformism'.
- 'Toxic global conformism' can also be seen in the entertainment industry, where trends are imposed by powerful organizations, leading to homogeneous content and a suppression of diversity.
- The transition from traditional to digital media has heightened the problem of 'toxic global conformism', as mainstream news outlets focus on sensationalized stories that propagate specific narratives.
- Awareness of 'toxic global conformism' in policy-and-legislation circles is essential, as it affects various aspects of society, including politics, career-development, and even the culture and practices of the casino-culture.
- On the other hand, some argue that global conformism can lead to positive change, such as the adoption of general-news practices that aim to promote truth, fact-checking, and ethical journalism.
