In Black Mirror, social media and digital rating systems are essential in shaping characters’ identities, especially in the episode “Nosedive.” Here, likes and ratings define an individual’s social value, leading characters to alter their behaviors for greater social acceptance. This illustrates how virtual evaluations on social media influence modern society.
Wright, Joe; Black Mirror; 2016; Netflix. Still
Deep Mediatization: The Infiltration of Social Media into Life
Deep mediatization in Black Mirror demonstrates how modern technology permeates every aspect of individual life, making media essential for social interactions. In the show, characters live in a society driven by social ratings and likes, where social media significantly influences their status, psychological well-being, and identity. For instance, in the episode “Nosedive,” lives are controlled by a social scoring system that impacts social standing and quality of life, reflecting the real-world influence of social media on behaviour and self-perception.
Fig. 1: Social ratings dictate status and privilege, illustrating societal pressures in Nosedive; Wright, Joe; Black Mirror; 2016; Netflix. 
Fig. 1 Chester offering Lacie a free organic smoothie to remedy his relationships with those in the office; Wright, Joe; Black Mirror; 2016; Netflix. Still 
Fig. 3: A clerk evaluates Lacie’s car rental eligibility based on her digital score, highlighting identity’s mediated nature; Wright, Joe; Black Mirror; 2016; Netflix.
Anxiety and the Climbing Mentality from Likes
Black Mirror reveals the anxiety and competitive mindset common in social media culture. In “Nosedive,” characters modify their behaviour to gain higher ratings, becoming dependent on virtual evaluations, which leads to heightened anxiety and social pressure—similar to real-life experiences. Focusing on likes fosters feelings of inferiority when individuals fear their content will go unnoticed.
Relieving Anxiety and Finding Your True Self
Through its extreme episodes, Black Mirror demonstrates the adverse effects of a culture of digital evaluation while offering viewers insightful reflections. In the real world, we can alleviate the anxiety triggered by digital assessments through the following approaches:
1. Rationalizing Digital Ratings
Recognize that likes and evaluations in the virtual world do not represent a person’s entire value.
2. Focusing on Inner Self-Expression
True self-expression should come from within, rather than catering to others’ expectations.
3. Reducing Dependence on Social Media
Spend a reasonable amount of time on social media platforms and avoid relying too heavily on digital ratings to define yourself.
4. Valuing Real-World Relationships
Real-life interpersonal relationships and emotional connections are more important than virtual interactions. Strengthen ties with family and friends to build a more meaningful support network.
Conclusion: Rethinking Digital Identity and Authentic Self
Through its insightful analysis of social media culture, Black Mirror reminds us not to let external virtual evaluation systems determine our values. In this digital age, we need to reflect on staying true to ourselves under the pressure of social platforms and how to define ourselves through internal identity rather than external evaluation. Evaluation and recognition in the digital world should not be the only criteria for measuring personal value, and we should search for our authentic selves rather than getting lost in virtual likes and evaluations.
reference
Couldry, N., & Hepp, A. (2018). The mediated construction of reality. John Wiley & Sons.
Netflix. (2016b, October 12). Black Mirror | Nosedive Featurette [HD] | Netflix [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R32qWdOWrTo
This blog provides an insightful analysis of Black Mirror as a reflection of how media shapes our perception of reality. By applying the concept of the “mediated construction of reality,” the post effectively demonstrates how the show critiques the impact of technology on our lives, blending dystopian fiction with contemporary societal issues. The connection between the series and the theories discussed offers valuable perspectives on the media’s role in shaping not just what we consume, but how we perceive the world around us.