“Propaganda we aren’t falling for” Gen Z new viral TikTok.

TikTok has got a huge chokehold over us yet again with the latest trend, “propaganda I’m not falling for” followed by lists of social ideologies we as society are perceived to follow but of course Gen z shift the term ironically and quite frankly it’s a dig to those watching, “I see through your bulls**t.” and reclaiming the term and how society have lowkey weaponised the tool to reclaim it.  A trend that Gen Z has cooked! I, for one, am obsessed with it.

From as simple as “propaganda I’m not falling for”, following lists as simple as “morning runs” and burgers are unhealthy. Snatching the word and ironically twisting it to personal and comedic use, but why has such a simple term turned into a viral trend? 

First of all, let’s not forget what the term “propaganda” is and what it reflects. 

To politically brainwash. However, as time has passed, it can be whatever new culture has been sold to us, like what the new fashion and beauty standards are, for example. Gen Z has taken a right grip on the meaning and is using it wisely and effectively.

Creators and audience are listing everyday things and activities we are led to accept or love when in reality, the majority of us feel the exact opposite. Take it in. Working 9-5? Not a whisper in complaint before, right? Call us lazy, but Gen Z isn’t here to live to work; they’re here to work to live. Or perhaps the idea that burgers are considered “unhealthy” when it’s just a case of classism being projected as the meal is seen as “lower class food”, but it is protein. Veg. carbs. A healthy dish to serve, right? And Gen Z are serving us with their justifiable taste of distrust. From Governments, Health. Jobs, Relationship Standards-Anything, all aspects of what Gen Z stand against. 

(Image sourced from Unsplash,https://unsplash.com/s/photos/propaganda)

This trend has opened gateways to new levels of understanding. Understanding that Gen Z can challenge what they are being marketed to, they can see through whatever new fitness trend is going viral. This is a remarkable form of rebellion. Another meme culture taken by storm, unpicking the ability to transform these critics and weaponising them. Unweaving strings of capitalism and outdated systems into humour and a political tool. Essentially spreading awareness and understanding across various media platforms without much consideration. 

Gen-Z may be unserious, but they are unforgiving in utilising these forms of pop and systemic culture as a weapon against the world. And it hits hard!

By Emily Ayse Jemal.