The Cheapened Man

The modern era is characterized by profound changes in how people perceive themselves, their relationships, and their roles in society. In a world dominated by speed and superficial convenience, there is a noticeable decline in the quality of human behaviour and character. The deterioration of authentic relationships, the loss of moral commitment, and the absence of deep thought create a culture of cheapness, where human values and humanity itself are devalued. In this context, the term “cheapness” does not refer to material goods or the market, but to the depth and quality of human relationships and behaviours, phenomena directly linked to the structure of modern society and the formation of individual character.

One of the most prominent aspects of this cheapness is the loss of authenticity. People today spend an excessive amount of time and energy trying to construct a false image of themselves, something particularly evident in the way they present themselves on social media. This constant effort to "appear" as something they are not alienates them from their true selves, undermining personal growth and sincerity in their relationships with others. Authentic relationships, those based on real communication and understanding, are increasingly replaced by superficial interactions. The result is that people become hypocritical, lose a sense of who they truly are, and marginalize the elements that create meaningful, genuine human connections.

This cheapening of character is not only the result of technology and social media but is also closely tied to a broader social culture that promotes easy and instant gratification. People increasingly avoid commitment and responsibility for their actions, as this requires time, effort, and emotional investment. Instead of engaging in deep relationships, they opt for the easier, more superficial choices that demand little effort. This phenomenon can be seen in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to the professional sphere, where integrity and consistency are downgraded and replaced by a mentality of opportunistic self-interest.

The lack of moral commitment is another factor that defines this cheapness of human character. The principles and values that once guided human behaviour within society seem to be receding in favour of individual gain. Moral principles are easily set aside in the pursuit of immediate, short-term benefits. This trend is evident not only in everyday relationships but also in professional environments, where many people act based on calculation rather than moral grounding. The consequence of this trend is the disintegration of social cohesion, as people find it increasingly difficult to trust one another and create deep, meaningful bonds.

The absence of moral commitment is closely tied to the lack of deep thought, another phenomenon observed in modern society. The ability of individuals to reflect on their actions and consider the consequences of those actions has been diminished in the face of a culture that worships speed and ease. The modern person seeks quick and immediate satisfaction without dedicating the time and energy required to understand the deeper implications of their choices. Thought becomes shallow, fragmented, and underdeveloped, resulting in a society that prefers the quick consumption of information over a meaningful understanding and analysis of facts.

Scientific studies have shown that the impact of digital technology and social media on human psychology and behaviour is significant. Continuous exposure to endless streams of information, images, and news has been linked to a deterioration in the ability to concentrate, think critically, and maintain emotional stability. Research in social psychology, such as that by Bauman and Sennett, has highlighted the connection between the superficiality prevalent in our time and the erosion of traditional moral and social values. This cheapness of thought and character creates a society unable to recognize the complexity of social phenomena, choosing the path of oversimplification and superficial reactions.

The restoration of values within the human personality is imperative if we wish to resist the ongoing degradation of human character. Authenticity, moral integrity, and deep thought must return to the forefront as fundamental attributes of a society that seeks to recognize true human worth. Without these essential principles, human relationships and societies as a whole risk sinking into an era where cheapness of character prevails and the authentic human experience is irrevocably lost.

This change will not be easy, and it certainly cannot be achieved immediately. It requires conscious effort and collective commitment to cultivating a new way of thinking and behaving. Each of us must take responsibility for how we live and the values we promote through our actions and choices. The restoration of human dignity and ethical standards in everyday life can be the first step toward a more meaningful and morally sound society.

Bibliography

1. Bauman, Z. (2003). Liquid Love: On the Frailty of Human Bonds. Polity Press.
2. Sennett, R. (2012). Together: The Rituals, Pleasures and Politics of Cooperation. Yale University Press.
3. Turkle, S. (2011). Alone Together: Why We Expect More from Technology and Less from Each Other. Basic Books.