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Weekly Blog Posts

How to Be a “Value Mover” on Douyin(抖音)

In today’s data-driven economy, every scroll, like, or ad view on Douyin funnels value into the pockets of corporate giants. But don’t despair! As users, we have ways to redirect that value to the creators who truly deserve it. Let’s explore how. Donating Tokens: A Digital World’s Act of Kindness Token donations are like digital […]

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Weekly Blog Posts

Social Networks or Social “Work”?

WeChat: lifeline to home Every morning, the first thing I do—right after reluctantly opening my eyes—is check WeChat. My family group chat is already bustling with “good morning” emojis and heartwarming messages. For my parents, this is their version of “emotional labor,” a digital expression of care (Hochschild, 1983). For me, WeChat isn’t about emojis; […]

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Weekly Blog Posts

Airbnb.org: A New Game of Capitalism?

Can technology really save the world? In this Airbnb.org’s promotional video, we are presented with a utopian vision of technology in action: hosts generously opening their homes during crises to provide temporary shelter for the homeless. This narrative paints the sharing economy as a human-centered, benevolent solution capable of addressing social issues and bridging gaps […]

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Weekly Blog Posts

The 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show: Plus-Size Models

A True Feminist Awakening or a Clever Marketing Move? The 2024 return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show brought plus-size models into the spotlight, aiming to capture attention through inclusivity and diversity. But here’s the question: is Victoria’s Secret advancing feminism, or merely using it as a strategy to revive sales? Let’s take a closer […]

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Weekly Blog Posts

Netflix’s Silent Invasion in China

If Netflix could talk, it might cry out: “I’m a global streaming giant, but in China, I don’t even get a proper stage!” Some say watching Netflix in China feels like a cross-border tech adventure, often spiced up with the suspense of a “crime thriller.” So, what is Netflix’s real status in China? “Officially Nonexistent” […]