Wed Feb 25 19:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Nostalgia for 2016: A Yearning for Authentic Connection in the Age of AI
The Story:
A recent episode of “The Stream” delves into the surprising social media trend of reminiscing about 2016. While the past decade has brought forth a multitude of new avenues for online self-expression, many internet users express a longing for the simpler days of grainy selfies with dog ear filters, old movies, and a perceived lack of AI-generated content. The discussion centers around whether this nostalgia is truly about 2016 itself, or rather a reflection of a deeper desire for more genuine human connections in an increasingly digital world.
Key Points:
- The episode explores the social media trend of missing 2016.
- The discussion questions whether the nostalgia is for 2016 specifically or for a time with more authentic online interactions.
- The episode features Joel Marlinarson, a Social media strategist and founder of “Coldest Creative”, and Louisa Munch, a Critical theorist, as guests.
- The past decade has seen a surge of new ways of self-expression online.
- Netizens reminisce about grainy selfies with dog ear filters, old movies, and less AI-generated content.
Key Takeaways:
- The nostalgia for 2016 on social media suggests a potential dissatisfaction with the current state of online interaction.
- The rise of AI-generated content may be contributing to a perceived lack of authenticity in online spaces.
- The desire for genuine connection remains a powerful motivator for social media users.
First Piper 