Brain rot isn’t new – but now we’re all talking about it | Letters

The term 'brain rot' has recently gained attention following its addition to the Oxford English Dictionary, but its origins date back much further. Research indicates that the phrase was first used by Henry David Thoreau in his 1854 work, 'Walden,' where he criticized society's preference for simplistic ideas over complex ones. Thoreau's observations highlighted a perceived decline in intellectual rigor, a sentiment that resonates today as contemporary discussions about brain rot often focus on the consumption of digital content. This modern interpretation encompasses various forms of media, including excessive reading, television watching, and listening to popular music, all of which are blamed for diminishing cognitive engagement among audiences, particularly younger generations.

Interestingly, the very individuals deemed to be suffering from brain rot—often parents, educators, and linguists—are also the ones coining and utilizing the term. This creates a paradox where those who discuss brain rot exhibit a degree of self-awareness regarding their consumption habits and the potential impacts on their intelligence and attention spans. The situation suggests that despite any negative implications associated with brain rot, there remains an ironic acknowledgment of the phenomenon among its critics. As noted by Fiona McPherson, the executive editor of the Oxford English Dictionary, this irony indicates a level of consciousness about the challenges posed by modern digital content, echoing sentiments articulated by cultural figures like David Bowie, who remarked on the awareness of individuals experiencing this cognitive decline. Thus, while the term 'brain rot' may have evolved with the times, the fundamental concerns regarding intellectual engagement remain unchanged.