What is an introvert? An introvert is a shy and quiet person that isn’t typically expressive around a large group of people, especially strangers. Unlike extroverts, who thrive off social activities and get a recharge around other people, introverts recharge when they’re alone and thrive doing activities that offer solitude.

In today’s world, it seems more people are identifying as an introvert in this rapidly changing social media society, where interaction went from face-to-face to online — recently, accelerated by the by COVID-19. As people become more comfortable online, they’re becoming less comfortable in the “real” world of in-person contact. In some countries, such as Japan, that the population is on a decline. They even have a term for those who willingly self-isolation for an extended amount of time; “hikikomori.” These are people who are considered hermits who live by themselves in their apartments to the extent that some are dying alone.

This begs the question: are there more introverts being born or are introverts socially conditioned to be this way? With the rise of social awareness campaigns, is there also a rise in “snowflakes?” No, not what you see during the snow. I’m referring to the new slang term popularized in the 2010s. But, what does it mean? Let’s take a look at Wikipedia for an answer. “Snowflake” is a 2010s derogatory slang term for a person, implying that he or she has an inflated sense of uniqueness, an unwarranted sense of entitlement, or are overly-emotional, easily offended, and unable to deal with opposing opinions.”

If people have always been this way, social media is giving their thoughts and ideas a platform, unlike any other time in history. The average person is now able to express themselves in front of millions of people at the drop of a finger. Without that direct, face-to-face understanding with one another, context, such as tone, real facial expressions, and human touch is taken out. It’s a lot easier to not only interact this way, but lose a sense of common bonding, understanding, and relatability. Building “thick skin” is more frowned upon with this lack of social exercise and as a result, more eggshells are being left around for others to somehow step around.

Why do we hate social interaction? It’s because we’re not used to being honest with the tact that is built up through socially falling down and learning to get back up to interact again. We’re not used to forgiving others for their past mistakes. We’re used to canceling and blocking people out of our lives. We’re becoming stagnant, socially. What if we’re not born introverted, to the extent of being on the edge of self-isolation? With the rise of the metaverse, do you think that will help us evolve socially or hurt us even more?