Yes, many argue the internet has degraded through "enshittification"—a term coined by Cory Doctorow describing how platforms prioritize profits over users, flooding feeds with ads, AI slop, and low-quality content while eroding privacy and usability.Examples include Google search cluttered with spam, social media overrun by reels and promotions, and services pushing subscriptions aggressively.This cycle stems from monopoly power and lack of competition/regulation.Sources: Wikipedia on Enshittification en.wikipedia.org ; Ars Technica arstechnica.com . Reversing it requires stronger antitrust enforcement and interoperability.
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Yes, pets like dogs and cats can show signs of low mood or depression when sick, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, withdrawal, or reduced interest in activities. These often stem from pain or discomfort, mimicking emotional depression. Always consult a vet to rule out underlying illness.Sources: https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/behavioral/dog-depression-symptoms-and-how-help-your-dog https://cvets.net/8-signs-your-pet-might-be-depressed/ https://thevets.com/resources/pet-conditions/depression-in-dogs/
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Yes, cultural perceptions of pets vary significantly worldwide. In Western societies (e.g., Europe and America), pets like dogs and cats are often treated as family members and emotional companions. In contrast, many Asian cultures traditionally view animals more utilitarian—as guards, workers, or even food sources—though urban trends are shifting toward companionship. Middle Eastern influences, shaped by religion, revere cats but often keep dogs outdoors for practical roles.A cross-cultural study of 60 societies found pets treated as "family" in only five, highlighting these stark differences (source: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233588978_Human-Pet_Dynamics_in_Cross-Cultural_Perspective).Globalization is bridging gaps, but core attitudes remain diverse (source: https://hraf.yale.edu/unconditional-love-is-devotion-to-pets-a-cultural-universal/).
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