The proliferation of social media has fundamentally altered how we consume and interact with culture. Dance, a fundamental aspect of human expression, has been profoundly impacted. Viral dance challenges on platforms like TikTok showcase the democratizing power of social media, allowing choreographers and dancers from diverse backgrounds to reach global audiences. However, this accessibility also raises concerns. The pressure to create ‘viral’ content can lead to homogenization of styles, overshadowing unique regional dance traditions. Furthermore, the fleeting nature of online trends often means that dances, once immensely popular, are quickly forgotten, leaving behind little lasting cultural legacy. This digital landscape intersects with the extraction of mineral resources in unexpected ways. The manufacturing of smartphones and other devices crucial for social media access relies heavily on rare earth minerals, often mined under exploitative conditions in developing countries. The environmental consequences of this extraction, including habitat destruction and water pollution, are significant. These minerals are also essential for technological advancements in areas such as renewable energy. The pursuit of sustainable energy sources, therefore, presents a complex ethical dilemma: can we reconcile the environmental costs of mining with the technological advancements needed to mitigate climate change, particularly in the context of a digitally driven society? The dance world itself isn’t immune. The costumes, stage lighting, and sound systems used in performances all contribute to the environmental footprint of this art form. As we become more aware of the environmental and social impacts of consumption, questions arise about the sustainability of both digital culture and the performing arts. How can we responsibly enjoy the benefits of social media and technological advancement while minimizing their detrimental effects on the environment and the communities involved in the extraction of resources?
1. The passage primarily focuses on which of the following relationships?
2. According to the passage, what is a potential negative consequence of the viral nature of dance trends on social media?
3. The passage suggests that the extraction of rare earth minerals presents a complex ethical dilemma because:
4. What is the author's main purpose in this passage?
5. The phrase "fleeting nature of online trends" (paragraph 2) refers to: