Is online culture getting dumber? Adults are baffled by the latest TikTok trend — and the wild world of Gen Z humour. But some think the absurd and ridiculous have always been part of our culture.
From ‘6-7’ star to accidental meme
Height of success: Basketball player LaMelo Ball, 24, has found himself at the centre of not just the court, but a TikTok sensation. Glossary
Meme - A funny image, video, text or idea etc that is shared quickly online.
Gen Alpha - People born between 2010 and 2025.
Brainrot - A slang term for an apparent decline in intelligence or critical thinking due to the overconsumption of inane online content.
AI - A computer programme that has been designed to think.
Animated - Full of energy, or made using animation techniques.
Precedents - Earlier events that are then used as guides or examples.
Absurdity - Ridiculousness.