When the Marubo tribe in Brazil, previously isolated from modern civilization, was given access to high-speed internet through Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite initiative, significant changes occurred in their community. Here’s a detailed look at the consequences:
Introduction to the Internet
Access Granted:The Marubo tribe, a 2,000-person community living along the Itui River, was provided with internet access to help them stay connected with friends and family and seek assistance in emergencies.
Unintended Consequences
Social Media and Pornography Addiction: Instead of just using the internet for its intended purposes, many tribe members became addicted to social media and pornography. This addiction has led to a noticeable change in their daily habits and social behaviors.
Laziness and Time Consumption: People in the tribe are spending hours scrolling through social media, leading to decreased productivity and laziness. Traditional activities like planting, fishing, and hunting have become less common.
Changes in Social Behavior
Increase in Public Displays of Affection:Public displays of affection, such as kissing, which were previously unheard of, have become more common.
Aggressive Sexual Behavior:There have been reports of more aggressive sexual behavior among young males, who are also sharing graphic recordings in group chats.
Impact on Culture and Traditions
Decline in Traditional Practices: The tribe’s way of life has drastically changed, with a decline in traditional customs and activities.
Social Distancing and Family Disconnection:Tribe members have become more distant from their families and less engaged in face-to-face social interactions. This disconnection is partly blamed on the excessive use of social media.
Leadership and Concerns
Leadership Perspective: TamaSay Marubo, the first woman to hold a leadership position in the tribe, attributes the youth’s neglect of their duties to their obsession with phones and social media.
Older Members’ Concerns: Older tribe members are worried that their customs may disappear, and malicious gossip spreading through group chats is harming the tribe’s social cohesion.
Mitigation Efforts
Internet Access Restriction: In an attempt to curb the negative impacts, the tribe plans to limit internet access to seven hours a day, with unlimited access only on Sundays.
Reflection on Modern Society
Broader Implications: The Marubo tribe’s experience raises questions about the broader effects of social media and the internet on modern society. It highlights how these technologies can disrupt traditional lifestyles and social structures, making us reflect on their impact on our own lives.