Last week I mentioned my love of TikTok as an unconventional bench activity. And though the content creation app helps me fulfill social needs, I do not think my last article properly explained how important TikTok’s platform is as a unique tool of connection.
As a brief recap, TikTok’s impressive success can be attributed to its unique “For You” page (FYP). Borrowing the infinite scroll function of Instagram’s “Explore” page and the short video format of Vine, the “For You” page provides users with an endless feed of short videos. Over time, the algorithm evaluates users’ demonstrated engagement (rewatching, liking, sharing, commenting, etc.) to better cater the FYP.
For those more inclined to the spotlight of content creation, the “For You” page is an alluring tool of unpredictable and intermittent fame. Easy-to-use in-app editing features empower individuals with all levels of digital prowess to create content. The algorithm then takes this content and promotes it on various users’ FYPs. Based on how users respond, the algorithm will boost the post to a broader audience.
Most internet sensations are subject to a similar, more organic form of digital natural selection, but the FYP facilitates this process of evaluation and retransmission, therefore increasing the accessibility of fame. This catalyzed success is what allows a group of super-hype teens with no previous celebrity status to now film dance TikToks worth millions of likes (@thehypehouse). Because video promotion is handled by the FYP algorithm, creators do not need to have a following of millions to produce TikToks with millions of likes.
Though the app has received scrutiny over privacy concerns and its role in reinforcing toxic behaviors, I personally think TikTok is a unique and engaging form of digital media. I think it can be frequently misunderstood, so I would like to take some time to explain the app I love.
In my opinion, the most important function of TikTok is how its low barriers to access and success have had a profound impact on groups traditionally less represented in media who have been able take control of their public images and reach diverse audiences on TikTok.
Zahra and Lama (@muslimthicc, @lama_mama_) are two positive comedy queens who also happen to wear hijabs. Laetitia (@laetiky96) is a black model from Cote d’Ivoire who celebrates her natural beauty by sculpting her natural hair into art sculptures. Brad’s hip flexibility (@bradosterhoutt) instills envy each time he throws it back with such power. Michael Carthy (@michaelcarthy) is a wheelchair-bound comedy king. Increased representation controlled by content creators allows users to see other lifestyles, values, and appearances, thus bridging the gap between people.
I live a fairly homogenous life, and TikTok allows me to see more perspectives and expand my cultural vocabulary. In this time of quarantine when I feel even more isolated, I embrace this opportunity to digitally travel. Though TikTok may not be for everyone, it is certainly important to me.
So you may see me sitting on a bench scrolling through my phone with earbuds in. And I will most likely occasionally laugh to myself. And that’s okay. I am more than happy to sit on a bench as the outdoor environment awakens my soul and TikTok awakens my brain.
lets go on an ad•bench•ure 