The world recently watched in horror as Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris was engulfed in a blaze which caused extensive damage to the centuries-old building. The cathedral also housed many artistic treasures and artifacts, some of which were damaged in the blaze. Restorations to the cathedral were underway at the time of the fire, and investigators have been examining whether this may have contributed to the blaze, currently believed to have been caused by an electrical short-circuit.^[1]

Many of our world treasures are housed in climate- and light-controlled rooms in specialist museums and galleries. Necessary restoration work is often undertaken by teams of specialists, who painstakingly preserve these artworks and artifacts for the future. However, there have been a number of restorations in recent years which have caused art and architectural historians to ask, “What were they thinking?”

In the past, these restoration failures may have been hidden from view. Art and history lovers today, however, are been quick to take to social media to share some of these debacles. Many were the work of well-meaning amateurs, while some bungled projects were the work of professionals. They do say art is in the eye of the beholder.

10 Monkey Christ

“Monkey Christ” is probably the most well-known botched art restoration attempt, having achieved worldwide infamy via social media.

In 2012, Spanish painter Elias Maritinez’s famous fresco Ecce Homo in the Borja Church was beginning to look a little dilapidated, so a parishioner in the small village church decided to give the artwork a bit of a spruce-up. However, not only the congregation but also the rest of the world was horrified when Cecelia Gimenez’s work was revealed.

The original artwork was barely recognizable. Now dubbed “Monkey Christ,” the botched restoration work went viral. Christ’s crown of thorns looked more like a woolly hat, and the facial features bore little resemblance to Martinez’s original work. The original features had been all but obliterated.^[2]

In a strange turn of events, Gimenez actually did her town a huge favor, just not exactly in the manner in which she intended. The octogenarian’s botched restoration attempt on the fresco became so famous that it is now a major tourist attraction. It attracts far more visitors to the small Spanish town than it did before. A comic opera was even staged in the town of Borja to commemorate Giminez’s failed brush with artistic restoration work.

9 Madonna And Child

Also in Spain, 15th- and 16th-century wooden carvings in a church in Ranadoiro were given an update which art experts labeled “a disaster.”

Although the statues had been professionally restored 15 years previously, a well-meaning local parishioner thought the drab wooden carvings could do with a splash of color to brighten them up. After convincing the priest to let her take them home for a while, she began work on the statues. For more than a year, she worked to painstakingly paint two carvings of the Virgin and Child and one of St. Peter to give them a more modern feel.

The end result, revealed in 2018, was likened to “children’s toys,” with one of the Mary carvings resembling a Barbie doll. In the other, the mother of Christ’s robes were turned a garish pink, with the infant Christ wearing lurid green robes.

While the artist claimed she “painted them as well as she could,” art historians were furious. Officials questioned why an inexperienced restorer had been allowed to remove the artifacts from the church to undertake the transformation. Several coats of common household paint had been used to decorate the statues. It was unclear whether the carvings, which had enormous historic and artistic value, would be able to be salvaged.^[3]

8 Statue Of St. George

A 500-year-old wooden carving of St. George on horseback had sat for many years in a recess in the back of a church in Estella, Northern Spain. The carving was in good condition, though a little dirty, when the priest of the church of San Miguel de Estella enlisted the help of a local art teacher to restore the relic in 2018.

A workshop was engaged to clean the statue. During the process, the historic relic was also repainted. It would seem, however, that a little more homework had been needed for the project.

A bright new paint job left the 16th-century carving looking more like a Disney character, prompting questions about the amateur restoration of the historic treasure. Authorities investigated whether the carving could be successfully “un-restored.” It was feared that the original intricate paintwork could be lost beneath the layers of modern plaster and paint.^[4]

7 Buddha Sculpture

Restoration work on historic Buddha statues in China’s Sichuan province were the subject of scorn when photos were circulated on social media more than 20 years after work was completed.^[5]

The Buddhist shrine dating back to the Song dynasty (960–1279) is carved into a mountainside in Anyue township. It is not only a sacred place to local villagers but also a site of important historical and cultural significance. In 1995, local villagers pooled their limited resources to “restore” the ancient artifacts. It seems well-meaning locals often believe they are protecting and caring for the relics by “restoring” them.

It wasn’t until a cultural relics enthusiast visiting the region’s sacred grottoes came to the site that experts became aware of the disastrous restoration. Pictures posted to his social media account in 2018 received harsh criticism. The artifacts had been transformed into cartoon-like statues. The ancient stone relics had received a garish paint job, with some commentators likening Buddha’s halo to a “giant lollipop.”

Government officials have now put stricter guidelines in place to prevent further amateur “restorations.”

6 Roman Mosaics In Turkey

It seems that even archaeological experts are not safe from questions over their restoration of valuable world treasures. A Turkish museum was criticized in 2015 for their restoration work on a series of Roman mosaics.

Misplaced tiles and inaccurate colors were said to have changed the appearance of the famous second-century panels. Photos show significant differences in some of the mosaics following the restoration work.^[6]

Art experts claimed the mosaics were “caricatures of their former selves” and that valuable artworks were ruined. Restorers argued that the Turkish press had manipulated the images to distort the differences in the “before and after” photos. Turkey’s culture minister suspended restoration work at the museum pending an investigation into the mosaics.

5 Tutankhamun’s Beard

The burial mask of Tutankhamun is one of Cairo’s biggest tourist draws. However, a botched repair job on the 3,000-year-old artifact saw a number of museum staff facing criminal charges in 2016.^[7]

The previous year, the blue beard on the mask had become detached for reasons unknown, with a number of attempts to repair the break further damaging the artifact. Large amounts of an inappropriate glue were employed in the repair job. Sharp objects were used in an attempt to scrape off excess glue, scratching the mask. The end result was a very obvious joint where the beard had been stuck on, surrounded by a residue of glue.

A team of German conservation experts were called in to repair the damage, restoring Tutankhamun’s beard before he was returned to public display.

4 Chinese Frescoes In Chaoyang

Crumbling Chinese frescoes were left looking more like a cartoon strip following a restoration in 2013. Located in the Yunjie Temple in Chaoyang, the frescoes are believed to date back to 300 years to the Qing dynasty.

The cost of the delicate task of restoring the original murals was beyond the budget of the small temple, so a local company was called in to undertake the repairs more cheaply. The 300-year-old frescoes were simply painted over with new, brightly colored figures from Taoist mythology. The new paintings bore no resemblance to the original murals.^[8]

The cartoon-like results prompted online fury at the destruction of these ancient treasures when images began to appear on social media.

3 Castillo De Matrera

The forces of nature were slowly eroding Castillo de Matrera in Southern Spain to a crumbling ruin. Remaining parts of the heritage-listed castle had begun to collapse. The castle has a rich history dating back to the ninth century and was declared a site of cultural significance by the Spanish government in 1985.

In 2016, Cadiz locals were aghast at the results after the owners of the castle employed architects and builders to restore the site. Restoration work stabilized the remaining structure, while providing an idea of what the original castle may have looked like. However, the combination of the old brickwork with modern materials fell flat with locals, who felt the castle had been ruined.^[9]

The project to preserve the ancient ruin ended up winning in the Preservation category of the New York A + Architizer awards.

2 Ocakli Ada Castle

An ancient castle in Turkey was likened to a popular cartoon character when restoration work was unveiled.

Ocakli Ada Castle in Sile is thought to have looked over the Black Sea since Byzantine times. After hundreds of years of neglect, local officials felt it was time to undertake work of preserving the remains of the castle. Restoration work on the castle took several years to complete. Stonework, windows, and battlements were rebuilt, and the structure was stabilized.

However the newly refurbished castle was mocked on social media in 2015. Many commentators noted the window placements unfortunately made the castle look like a depiction of SpongeBob SqaurePants.^[10]

1 Statue Of St. Anthony Of Padua

In 2018, parishioners of a Colombian church were outraged when a budget restoration on the statue of their patron saint left him looking like he was wearing makeup.

The wooden 17th-century statue of St. Antonio de Padua in Soledad was sadly in need of repair. The paint on the statue had become quite faded, and termites had begun to eat away at parts of the wood. So an artist was commissioned to repaint the statue at the modest fee of just $328.^[11]

Following the paint job, angry churchgoers took to social media to display before and after photos of their patron saint. The end result left both St. Antonio and the child he is carrying wearing garish makeup, not in keeping with religious icons. Locals were outraged that St. Antonio now looked “quite effeminate.”

Restoration experts believed the techniques required to paint the wooden sculpture had not been followed.

Lesley Connor is a retired Australian newspaper editor, providing articles for online publications and her own travel blog.

Cutting-edge technology allows researchers to get creative with their goals. Quirkiness in the name of science is bound to produce something unusual. From octopuses that are plied with Ecstasy and people reading each other’s thoughts to a reality that exists only when looked at, scientists are breaking new ground.

However, as with all experiments, not everything was wholesome. Some results showed disturbing human-robot relationships and worse—the tendency to torture a helpless victim existed even in those who thought they were incapable.

10 Goats Like Happy People

Goats are known for their smarts. In 2018, an experiment with 20 animals revealed another cognitive ability. They can tell people’s facial expressions apart. The plucky creatures were trained to walk over to the far side of the pen, where they received snacks.

During the second phase, two images were tacked to the back. The photos included men and women, none of whom the goats had ever met in real life. One picture always contained a smiling person and the other, a grumpy frown. The animals were shown only male or female faces, and the pictures were moved around to the left and right sides of the enclosure.

Gender appeared to make no difference to the goats, which preferred to sniff at the happy faces. Curiously, they only picked the positive images posted on the right side of the pen.^[1]

This suggested that the left hemisphere of a goat’s brain deals with friendly cues. It remains unclear how goats understand the facial communication of another species, but this test provided the first evidence that they are capable of doing so.

9 The Four-Day Week

Many employees dread their work environment, especially when companies put profits ahead of workers’ needs. In 2018, one New Zealand company made a radical change. For two months, the trusts firm Perpetual Guardian gave its workforce full pay for four-day weeks.

The unique experiment aimed to determine whether reduced office hours had a positive or negative impact on business. Most business owners would view it as risky, but the results were incredible.

The staff’s stress levels dropped from 45 to 38 percent. Even healthier, their work-life balance increased from 54 to 78 percent. The most remarkable finding was that productivity showed a small improvement despite the shorter weeks. Additionally, there was an increase in the commitment and positive relationships among staff. Leadership improved, and people actually enjoyed what they were doing.

The experiment created something that is rarely seen today—a team fiercely loyal to a company that cares for them. Perpetual Guardian now wants to make the four-day week permanent.^[2]

8 Octopuses On Ecstasy

A bizarre-sounding experiment happened in 2018. Researchers gathered two octopuses, two Star Wars action figures, and some Ecstasy (aka MDMA). This drug is known to flood human brains with serotonin and turn them into social cuddle bears.

Octopuses are grouchy loners. When sober, they avoided their own kind and the toys in their tank. When high on Ecstasy, they behaved just like people and got chummy with their fellow octopuses as well as Chewbacca and a stormtrooper.

The lovestruck tentacles revealed something unexpected. The brain of an octopus and that of a human do not even have the same regions. The two groups, vertebrates and invertebrates, separated over 500 million years ago. But surprisingly, a single gene in the genomes of humans and the eight-tentacled wonders matched perfectly.^[3]

SLC6A4 is the genetic binding site of Ecstasy, which is likely why both species develop a rosy, loving outlook on life once drugged with MDMA. Nobody really expected the socially linked genetic and neurological pathways of people to exist in other creatures.

7 Rogue Kidneys

These days, scientists grow organoids—miniature versions of real human organs. In 2018, a laboratory sprouted some mini kidneys from stem cells. After four weeks of nourishing the growths in a chemical soup, they were ready.

This soup was designed to encourage the stem cells to grow only specialized kidney cells. Once the organoids were fully grown, researchers took a peek at what was happening inside them. Then the surprise hit.

For some reason, the tiny kidneys had gone rogue and also produced brain and muscle cells. These cellular oddballs accounted for up to 20 percent of the organoids’ makeup.

As interesting as Frankenstein organs are, it was a setback. Organoids are valuable as tools to study diseases, but if they do not model a real human kidney, any information gleaned would most likely be skewed.

Another unexpected discovery was that the lab-grown kidneys refused to mature, no matter how they were farmed. This was also problematic for disease studies as longer exposure to the soup caused more rogue cells.^[4]

6 Children Believe Misleading Robots

The Asch experiment is a social conformity test disguised as a vision exam. In 2018, researchers put their own spin on it. Around 43 kids, aged seven to nine, were required to find two equally long lines on a screen. The answer was obvious. When alone, the children proved correct 87 percent of the time.^[5]

Then the robots came. Whenever the child was asked to pick lines, a robot would helpfully provide the incorrect answer. Even though the right answer was easy, the kids doubted themselves and looked to the machines for answers. They did this so often that the success rate fell to 75 percent. They just followed the robots’ leads, sometimes word for word.

When 60 adults were tested in the same way, they ignored the robots. The children probably experienced “automation bias,” a powerful belief that machines have greater abilities than they really do. Researchers suspect that the adults, unaffected by the toylike robots, might have folded if they were bigger and more imposing.

5 The Tokyo Explosion

Scientists have been trying to make bigger magnetic fields for decades. Huge ones have been created, but their strength was too much for an indoor setting. However, measuring fields that are created outside fails in the accuracy department.

In 2018, Tokyo physicists built an armored room to contain what they hoped would be the strongest controlled magnetic field created under laboratory conditions. Such fields are graded in teslas. The strongest MRI machine creates three teslas, and the Tokyo team aimed for 700.^[6]

Instead, their electromagnetic device erupted with 1,200 teslas. This unexpected development made it the strongest controlled field, although “controlled” only meant being able to measure its power. The actual event blew apart the laboratory’s armored doors, right after it crumpled the iron box in which it was kept.

Despite the fright and damaged property the team got, the 1,200 teslas was a step toward limitless, clean energy. Nuclear fusion reactors need only a 1,000-tesla magnetic field to change the world’s energy crisis. Scientists now have a strong-enough field. They just need to determine how to stop the explosions.

4 Measurement Creates Reality

In 1978, physicists proposed that reality did not exist until measured. It sounded weird back then, but in 2015, the technology arrived to prove it. Australian scientists tweaked a famous theoretical experiment from the 1970s and showed that the quantum world honored this strange law.

The experiment took a single helium atom and sent it through laser barriers (the points of measurement) to see if it acted like a wave or a particle. Logic dictates that its very nature would be preexisting and that measurement could not make it behave in any other way.^[7]

However, as bizarre as it sounds, the tests showed that the atom could not decide whether it wanted to be a wave or a particle until it encountered the lasers. To start its journey, the helium atom was sent through a pair of beams meant to scatter its path.

At a later point during its travels, random lasers were added to merge the paths again. This second measurement somehow brought into existence the atom’s preference for wave- or particle-like behavior.

3 The Murdered Robot

Once upon a time (2015), there was a robot called hitchBOT. He had one ambition: to travel as far as he could by hitching rides with strangers. For two weeks, the friendly machine enjoyed the charity of drivers and clocked the longest journey ever made by its kind.

After he had traveled over 10,000 kilometers (6,200 mi) in Canada and enjoyed the views of several cities in Germany, hitchBOT wanted to see the whole of the United States of America. Had the electronic wanderer had parents, they would have warned him about the dangers of hitchhiking.

Instead, hitchBOT’s designers created him as an experiment to see how far human kindness would take him and how people interacted with a robot without supervision. Around the beginning of his great American adventure, he set off for San Francisco—and disappeared.^[8]

His decapitated body was found in Philadelphia. It had been thrown into a ditch. Worse, his killer had had fun. The person had also removed hitchBOT’s arms and rearranged them around the robot’s body.

2 BrainNet

In 2018, neuroscientists managed to connect the brains of three people. They could play a Tetris-type game just by sharing thoughts. This “network” was dubbed BrainNet.

The participants did not actually read one another’s thoughts. However, thanks to electroencephalograms (EEGs) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), they could communicate. Two participants were the “senders” and wore EEG electrodes. A third person had a TMS cap and was the “receiver.”

The senders played each other, but only the third person could move the blocks. When a player wished to rotate a block, he stared at one of two LEDs on the screen. The flashing lights triggered signals in the brain, which got picked up by the EEG and relayed to the TMS cap. The latter’s magnetic field created phantom flashes in the receiver’s mind—a sign to rotate the block.

With a success rate of just over 80 percent, scientists hope to one day create a social network of interfaced brains, possibly over the web.^[9]

1 The Milgram Experiment

Stanley Milgram discovered a disturbing corner of the human mind. During the 1960s, this social psychologist tested how far people would go when ordered by an authority figure to electrocute another person. Most participants obeyed. The Milgram experiment was a turning point in the study of obedience and social psychology.

In 2017, researchers wanted to see if individuals today would shelve empathy for authoritative approval. Most would think themselves incapable of responding to such influence.

A recent Polish study recruited 80 people for a “memory experiment.” Their job was to shock learners who failed to memorize associations. The shocks were never real. The participants did not know this or that the “learners” were actors.

About 10 levers delivered increasingly higher voltage shocks. The participants were told to zap learners who failed to memorize something, and an authority figure encouraged those who became hesitant when the shocks grew more powerful (and they had to listen to screams). Although participants were three times less likely to use stronger shocks on female learners, a disturbing 90 percent went all the way.^[10]

Even if we choose to spend most of our time staring at a screen, humans are inherently social creatures. Social interaction still forms an important part of our day-to-day lives, whether it’s with colleagues at work, family at home or strangers on the Internet.

10 Surprising Ways To Hack Your Body

While some people seem to be naturally good at understanding social cues and carrying a perfect conversation, for the more introverted of us out there, it may not be as easy. Thankfully – and possibly due to scientists generally being introverts as well – science has come up with quite a few hacks you can use the next time you find yourself stuck in a social situation.

10 Feet Don’t Lie

Most people think of the eyes to be the best indicator of what someone is feeling, and they’re not entirely wrong. Eyes are capable of expressing a ridiculously wide range of emotions, though it’s also quite easy for most people to fake them. If you want to know what someone’s really feeling in a casual conversation at a party—according to science, at least—look at their feet.

While we’re perfectly capable of faking emotions with most other parts of the body, the feet aren’t easy to fool at all. You can tell if someone is stressed, humiliated, humbled, shy, lethargic, horny, angry or nervous just by looking at their legs or feet, as we have no control over it. For example, someone uncrossing his legs or turning his feet to point away from you is likely feeling a sense of discomfort, as his brain has already started making subconscious preparations to leave.^[1]

9 Take A Cup Of Hot Coffee To Your Next Interview

The Internet is full of advice on what to do to prepare for an interview. Depending on the source, it may be anything from color-coordinating your clothes to trying to sleep with someone related to the interviewer. None of it works, though, as interviewers are usually looking for quick decision-making abilities and confidence, and rarely preparedness.

The best way you can ace an interview is by knowing what you’re talking about, but also warming your hands up before the handshake. If that sounds random, it isn’t. Studies have found that warmth can make someone kinder and more generous towards you. While they don’t know exactly why it happens, it may be a vestige from our early days. Shared warmth would have – at some point – helped us establish closer relationships with other people, which would have, in turn, helped keep us all alive.^[2]

8 Stop Feeling Anything With Botox

While emotions are generally considered to be a good thing, they can also prove to be a detriment in many social situations. There are many times when something offensive or otherwise out-of-place ends up disproportionately affecting us. Emotions definitely work against us in those cases; if only there was a way to shut them off to avoid these situations.

As it turns out, there is; just get a Botox treatment. Botox has been long known to inhibit your ability to physically express emotions, but if some recent research is anything to go by, it may actually affect our ability to feel those emotions, too. While they don’t know how it can be possible – as emotions are entirely in the brain and shouldn’t be affected by cosmetic treatments – it’s similar to how you can fool your body into feeling happy by forcing a smile.^[3]

7 In An Argument, Keep It Simple

Whenever we’re in the middle of an argument, we tend to dig up complex, elaborate facts to counter the opposing points. Unfortunately, that doesn’t quite work, as the main aim of most human arguments isn’t sharing knowledge or coming to an amiable conclusion, but winning. Keeping that in mind, the next time you’re stuck in a fairly simple argument with someone, try simplifying your language instead of making it tougher.

Studies suggest that speaking in easily-enunciable words and simple-to-understand sentences has a calming effect on the listener, and could even be used to make them more receptive to what you’re saying. It has been proven to work in areas other than social situations, too, like politics. Donald Trump’s rise, as an example, could be attributed – at least in part – to his simple, straightforward manner of speaking which innately appeals to people.^[4]

6 Use Your Non-Dominant Hand To Control Anger

Contrary to what most people think, emotions like rage aren’t limited to people with a short temper. In most cases, uncontrollable anger is a symptom of other underlying issues, but also a fairly regular part of daily life if kept under normal levels. For anyone who isn’t able to do so, you may want to actively try using your non-dominant hand for daily tasks.

As a study done by a professor at the University of Wales suggests, just the simple act of switching hands while doing basic tasks like cleaning the house or using your laptop could massively reduce your anger, as well as train the mind to control itself better in the future. Obviously, don’t try this with situations like trying to play a music instrument or writing, where switching would probably make you even angrier than before.^[5]

5 The Benjamin Franklin Effect

Ever been in a drawn-out, heated argument that has gone on long enough for you to desperately want to escape it to cut your losses in temper? At that point, there aren’t many things you can do. You can either completely blow up, shut them up and walk away, or be more polite and text a friend to help you out of the situation. As it turns out, there’s something else you can try, too; do them a favor to force yourself to like them.

It’s known as the Benjamin Franklin effect, as he was the first one to theorize that if someone is kind to you once, he’s much more likely to be kind to you in the future. That sounds baffling, as our actions should be caused by our feelings and not the other way around. It was only when it was scientifically proven in 1969 that we realized that it’s a real phenomenon.^[6]

4 Social Proof

If you ever walk past two adjacent food stalls selling the same item, chances are that one of them would always be much more crowded than the others. We see this in action in the case of cafes or restaurants, too. People tend to go to places they see other people going to, as it indicates that it’s a better place to go to. Mind you, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s better, only that people trust others when it comes to the value of things in our society.

This is known as a marketing strategy called ‘social proof’, and could be successfully used in social situations, too. You can make your arguments much more convincing if you make them sound like someone else came up with them, even if they didn’t.^[7]

3 The Last Impression

As a society, we give a lot of importance to first impressions. Whether it’s a first date or an interview, we make sure to put our best foot forward when we walk into the room. It makes sense, too, as conventional wisdom suggests that first impressions can make or break a meeting.

As growing research is finding out, though, first impressions are hardly impactful enough to make a difference, or even in our control. If you really want someone to remember a first meeting with you, you need to focus on your last impression instead. More clearly, people tend to remember what you leave them with over what you did when you first came into the room, especially when it comes to permanent, long-term impressions.^[8]

2 Chew Gum To Calm Your Nerves

Nerves maybe annoying at times, though they’re a pretty useful mechanism of the body to help us deal with hectic situations. Being nervous before an exam ensures that you study for it well. When it comes to social interactions, though, they can work against us, too. For many people, being nervous can be a debilitating place to be in, and could actively hamper their day-to-day productivity.

While there aren’t any medical cures for that (yet) chewing gum can help you temporarily fix it. Researchers have found that the continuous act of chewing can actually considerably lower anxiety and improve your mood, as well as help fight feelings of depression. It’s not just useful before interviews or other social meeting, either, as it could be used in many other non-social situations, too.^[9]

1 Asking For Help Actually Makes You Appear Smarter

Most people agree with the ‘fake it till you make it’ approach; appear like you know what you’re talking about and people would think that you really do. It’s a central theme of many rap songs and inspirational movies, and seems to be fairly straightforward and accurate piece of advice.

As a researcher at the Harvard Business School found out, however, asking for help may actually make you appear smarter to others for multiple, unrelated reasons. For one, admitting that you don’t know something comes across as a sign of wisdom, as gathering more information to fill gaps in your knowledge is an inherently smart thing to do. More importantly, asking for help makes the other person feel important and intelligent, in turn improving his own opinion of you.^[10]

Social media is incredibly divisive. Most people agree that it’s marvelous at connecting us, but there is a strong movement toward reducing the time we spend online. (The coronavirus quarantines and social distancing guidelines are an exception, of course.)

The Internet can definitely have an unfavorable impact on some aspects of our lives, making us unhappy occasionally. However, the negative repercussions of social media can also be grave enough to be linked to fatalities.

These stories are cautionary tales of 10 deaths directly linked to social medial and the Internet.

10 Creepy Things Social Media Does To Control Your Mind

10 Influencer’s Birthday Pool Party Drownings

Earlier this year, the death of three Russians at a birthday pool party was announced on Instagram, creating a frenzy on the Internet. The beginning of the story does not sound that unusual—until you realize that about 25 kilograms (55 lb) of dry ice were dumped into the pool.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Yekaterina Didenko, the birthday girl and influencer, tearfully recounted the devastating event to her over one million followers. Russian news media and some bloggers criticized her for trying to capitalize on it.

At the party, several people were choking and passing out after jumping into the pool containing dry ice. Despite its name, dry ice is actually solid carbon dioxide (the gas we exhale when we breathe out) that is frozen at a temperature of -78 degrees Celsius (-109 °F).

As dry ice doesn’t melt—it goes from solid to gaseous at room temperature—people use it for party tricks and cool effects. This process, called “sublimation,” gives CO₂ its “smoky” qualities.

When dry ice melts in confined spaces, it turns into carbon dioxide gas, a potentially harmful substance. Carbon dioxide can cause breathing difficulties and asphyxiation, which was the reason for the party guests’ deaths.^[1]

9 Choking Challenge
The Internet’s Most Dangerous Craze

The “choking game” (aka “fainting game”) is the act of intentionally cutting off oxygen to the brain, causing the person to pass out. Children and teenagers take the challenge mostly due to curiosity (allegedly, it induces euphoria) and peer pressure.

This incredibly dangerous and irresponsible activity has been around since long before the Internet existed. (In fact, the first death was reported in 1995.) Even though the Internet cannot be blamed for the creation of the choking game, it can be credited for its resurgence.

Social media viral challenges are a huge deal for young people. Usually, when a teenager sees someone his age doing something thrilling on the Internet, he´ll try to replicate it. That’s the purpose of these challenges, which range from the ridiculous to the horrifying.

The choking game has made several comebacks over the years due to social media challenges. In 2006, a year after YouTube was created, 35 deaths were caused by the choking game. In 2019, teenager Mason Bogard died while attempting the challenge.^[2]

8 Deadliest Selfies Part I
Model Falls Off A Cliff

People will do anything for a selfie. If you don’t believe that, just do a quick search on “selfie-related deaths.” Madalyn Davis was not the first and won’t be the last casualty caused by the search for a great picture.

Davis, a makeup artist and social media influencer, was an expert in eyelash styling and had thousands of followers across different platforms. She was vacationing in Australia when the tragedy occurred.

Davis fell off a cliff in Diamond Bay Reserve in Sydney while trying to take a risky photo. Police and paramedics launched an air and water search with the assistance of the Marine Area Command. Unfortunately, the body of the British model was found in the water about four hours later. She had died on impact from head injuries.^[3]

7 Facebook Unfriending Culminates In A Double Homicide

Have you ever been “unfriended” on Facebook?

It’s not a nice feeling. But normal people get over it in a couple of hours. Thirty-one-year-old Jenelle Potter did not have a typical reaction. Instead, she decided that murder was the sensible response.

This story deserves a list of its own as it involves jealousy, the CIA, and a double homicide. Here’s the short version: After allegedly being cyberbullied by a couple of her former friends, Jenelle convinced her parents to shoot them.

The crime happened in 2012. Janelle’s father claimed that he acted according to his own impulses. However, the prosecutor of the case believed that Jenelle had manipulated her parents with a catfishing scheme.

Allegedly, Jenelle used social media to deceive her parents into killing her former friends. She created a fake profile of a CIA agent. The “agent” sent messages saying that Jenelle’s life was in danger.^[4]

6 Woman Lynched By A Mob In Brazil Over An Internet Rumor

Spreading rumors is a nasty thing to do. Although the practice was not invented online, it has certainly been exacerbated by the Internet. In the old days, the impact of a rumor was limited to small groups of people. Usually, the worst-case scenario was getting a raunchy reputation in your school. However, rumors gain a whole new dimension with the Internet’s reach and propensity to distort reality.

In 2014, Fabiane Maria de Jesus, a mother of two, was identified by a local Facebook page as a criminal accused of kidnapping children and sacrificing them in satanic rituals. The origin of the misunderstanding was supposedly a police sketch that vaguely resembled a picture of her.

The Brazilian woman was dragged through the streets by a mob of people and beaten to death. When six of the miscreants were arrested, a protest broke out at the police station. People screamed, “Do you want to arrest everybody? It’s everybody’s fault! It’s nobody’s fault! It’s the Internet’s fault!”^[5]

9 Sinister Facts About The Dark Side Of Instagram

5 Teenager Is Cyberbullied Until He Commits Suicide

The earliest deaths attributed to the Internet are related to cyberbullying-induced suicide, which is made much worse by social media. As a society, we now take bullying more seriously due to the long-lasting effects on the victims.

It can be difficult to put an end to bullying in schools, but it is even harder to stop it on the Internet. One of the most notorious cases is the suicide of 13-year-old Ryan Halligan. He was relentlessly cyberbullied by other kids on Myspace due to a rumor that he was gay.

At one point, a girl pretended to like him, only to later publicly humiliate the boy for believing in her affection. Ryan told her: “It is girls like you that make me want to kill myself.”

Ryan hanged himself in 2003. His lifeless body was found by his sister.^[6]

4 Deadliest Selfies Part II
Mauled By A Bear

In another selfie-related incident, a man was killed by a bear in India while trying to take a picture with the animal. After attending a wedding, Prabhu Bhatara was driving back to his house when he decided to stop to urinate in the woods. While doing so, he spotted an injured bear, which prompted him to attempt to take the selfie of the year.

As Prabhu approached the animal, the bear attacked and a struggle ensued. A stray dog at the site intervened but failed to deter the bear. The whole ordeal was filmed by a bystander, and clips of the horrific incident can be found on the Internet.^[7]

India’s wildlife often clashes with people in the suburban areas of the country. To no one’s surprise, that was the third fatality linked to selfies with wild animals in that region in a year.

3 YouTuber Dies In A Paragliding Accident While Filming A YouTube Video

Having a YouTube channel drives you to do crazy things to get views.

On “The King of Random” channel, Grant Thompson used to showcase DIY projects and experiments, but outdoor activities were also featured. Unfortunately, the influencer passed away in 2019. He was found dead near Sand Hollow State Park, Utah.

Along with his body, paragliding equipment and a recording device were recovered. This suggested that he died while attempting to film a video for his popular YouTube channel.^[8]

2 Woman Strangled By Her Tinder Date In A Rough Sex Session

Tinder is probably the first name that pops into your mind when you think of online dating. The platform is so successful that even nonusers understand what the terms “swipe left” and “swipe right” mean.

Dating in the social media era can make you feel safer. You don’t meet people face-to-face right away, and you can get a friend to track your position through GPS. However, this extra sense of security can lead you to ignore basic instincts and bypass self-preservation precautions.

Women are especially vulnerable to predatory behavior. The death of 22-year-old Grace Millane serves as an example of how we can never be too safe while meeting people we don’t know.

While the British woman was backpacking in New Zealand, she agreed to go on a date with a man she met on Tinder. The date went from promising to tragic when she was strangled during a rough sex session.

The man, not identified for legal reasons, hid her remains in a suitcase. Then he went on another date with another woman.^[9]

1 Lips To Die For:
The Kylie Jenner Challenge

Kylie Jenner is a media personality who stars in the reality TV show Keeping Up with the Kardashians. Her estimated net worth is US$1 billion, making her the youngest billionaire at 21. She is known for her ravishing beauty, of which the most coveted aspect is definitely her plump lips.

The desire to have Kylie’s pouty lips inspired the Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge. Teenagers inserted their lips into shot glasses and sucked out the air to create a vacuum. The aim was to swell the lips. The problem is that the act itself is dangerous due to the injuries sustained to the face.

In 2015, a story circulated online that Natalie Cardenas, 19, was found dead on her bedroom floor with “huge lips” and a shot glass in her hands. According to the fictional account, the tragedy prompted the authorities to declare the Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge illegal in the United States. Although no credible source confirms that story, it’s a good idea to skip the challenge as it can cause real and possibly lasting injuries.^[10]

10 Ways Organizations Manipulated Social Media For Political Agendas

About The Author: Arnaldo is a Brazilian with a PhD in quantum chemistry who is living in the UK. He is a fanatic about science, beer, and the Internet.

When you picture an occultist, the typical image that comes to mind is a wizened sixteenth-century figure pouring over mysterious runes and ancient scrolls. But the dark magicians of today are more likely to found hunched over a MacBook, tweeting their favorite herbal recipes and live streaming to their online coven.

In this technological age, supernatural forces have found enormous popularity on social media, especially under quarantine. In fact, for many practitioners, online witchcraft is a lucrative business. Over the past five years the US psychic services industry has grown to the value of $2 billion dollars.^[1]

Gone are the levitating broomsticks and ill-fated familiars. The new generation of keyboard mystics peddle their wares on Instagram, link up over Zoom and are even able to cast spells using emojis. These are ten of the ways that dark magic is infiltrating social media.

Top 10 Films With Creepy Links To The Occult

10 Anti-Trump Witches Hex The US Election

The 2020 presidential election has been one of the most controversial and divisive in US history. Joe Biden’s victory has been met with delight and fury in equal measure, along with accusations of voter fraud from Donald Trump and many of his supporters. But was there more to Biden’s triumph than meets the eye? Was there, perhaps, some kind of magical intervention?

It sounds bizarre, but occultists across the US believe their political incantations helped swing the vote in Biden’s favor. On Halloween, three days before the election, magical activist Michael M. Hughes encouraged thousands of witches to convene online for a ritual that he said would rid the country of President Trump. Participants were instructed to chant cleansing spells, light politically-decorated candles, and cover maps in blue paint, all beneath the glow of a full blue moon.

Together, Hughes claims, he and his followers were able to invoke the power of their ancestral spirits and raise “a mighty blue wave” to propel Biden into the White House. There, they say, he will “wash away the corruption and injustice and wickedness of Donald Trump and the Republican Party in a peaceful transition of power.”^[2]

Political magic might sound like a relatively modern invention, but its origins date back centuries. During the Second World War, some Britons called on magical intervention to protect themselves from Nazi invasion. And in the US, a feminist group known as W.I.T.C.H. first descended on Wall Street in protest in the 1960s, and are still protesting against capitalism to this day.^[3]

9 Casting Spells With Emoji Magic

Runes and symbols are valuable tools in the world of black magic. For years, witches and wizards have used pictorial sorcery to conjure up their needs and desires. In fact, image-based magic – known as sigil magick – is a longstanding tradition whose origins date back to medieval times. But now, in the age of social media, casting spells with Gothic runes feels a little old hat. So, tech-savvy sorcerers found a way to give sigil magick a modern-day face lift, using an icon of the 21st century: the emoji.

With emoji spells, a new generation of witches and wizards are said to be able to produce incantations from the comfort of their cell phones. The key, sigil experts claim, is to be direct when casting the spell. Visualize your intentions clearly, then translate them into emoji and send them out into cyberspace. So if you are searching for your keys, for example, you might cast a magnifying glass emoji, followed by an image of keys. Or, for something more substantial, to find a romantic partner it is recommended that you send a series of love heart emojis, interspersed with images that represent the personality traits you find most attractive.

Emoji magic might seem like complete nonsense, but experts claim that weirdness is actually part of their power. “After all,” as one Californian witch explained to Vice magazine, “being silly and strange is part of being a witch.”^[4]

8 Black Magic Healers On Instagram

The black magic renaissance is taking root across the globe. In recent years, the West African customs known as juju have seen a huge resurgence. Renowned figures like British musician J Hus have helped bring the dark arts into vogue, and some spiritualists are racking up hundreds of thousands of followers online.

West African spiritual leaders, or babalawos as they are known locally, are now taking on the role of relationship therapists. Through stylish Instagram accounts, customers now have access to all kinds of black magic artifacts. An eligible young woman, for example, might splash out on herbal medicine, hoping it might help her attract a wealthy lover or two. On the other hand, a jilted wife with an unfaithful partner might find herself in need of a blue eye bracelet to bring her husband back home.

As the popularity of juju grows, its ethics are increasingly called into question. Skeptics doubt the morality of using ritual magic to manipulate a partner. In 2019, one woman was lambasted online after she admitted to sneaking some of her menstrual blood into her lover’s meals. Nonetheless, regardless of its ethics, the juju revival lives on.^[5]

7 Romania’s Supernatural Revolution

In areas of Eastern Europe, sorceresses and healers are highly revered. Girls are brought up from a young age to be in tune with the supernatural, their mothers passing down ancient rituals and spiritual customs. But in Romania, some of these young women are breaking with tradition. A new generation of witches – or vrajitoare – have discovered that the internet gives them access to a much wider audience of clients, and the potential to make a lot more money.

The vrajitoare’s internet success, however, has not gone unnoticed. Over the last decade, the Romanian government has brought in tighter regulations on online magical activity. In 2011, then-president Basescu made the historic decision to introduce an income tax for witchcraft. The new tax split opinions among witches. Some embraced the decision, believing it would cement the vrajitoare as respectable businesswomen in Romanian society. Others, it was reported, stomped up to the banks of the Danube and starting hurling poisonous mandrake into the river.^[6]

6 School Of Black Magic

Occultists are people of tradition. Magic and the dark arts are passed down through the ages, generation to generation, the old educating the young. Previously if a budding occultist wanted to study techniques for Chinese divination or astral projection they would need to seek out an expert in the dark arts. But now, you can learn almost all of it from the comfort of your computer, courtesy of an eccentric magician called Jason Louv.

Louv’s career path is an interesting one to say the least. Throughout his life he has helped develop artificial intelligence at Google, worked on Buzz Aldrin’s project to colonize Mars, and written a number of books with the late Genesis P-Orridge of Throbbing Gristle. Now he dedicates his time to running the only online school of the dark arts: magick.me. At Louv’s school, students can learn all manner of mystic subjects, from neuro-linguistic programming to psychic protection. He even teaches pupils how to meditate like Aleister Crowley – the English occultist known for being “the wickedest man in the world.”^[7]

10 Unsolved Murders With Strange Links To The Occult

5 TikTok Witches Curse The Moon

TikTok might seem like an endless blur of novelty dance crazes and cringe worthy lip-syncing, but the video app has a strange occult underbelly. The social media app is home to a vast network of magical practitioners, astrologers and niche spiritualists, all of whom exist online in relative harmony. Or at least that was the case, until summer 2020 when it emerged that a small group of amateur witches had tried to place a curse on the moon. Then people started to lose their minds.

Of course, as if it even needed pointing out, their actions had no effect on the moon. All of the celestial bodies came out of this completely unscathed. But, for people who believe in the existence of magic, the moon is a sanctified object. To even attempt to place a curse on it is seen as grossly offensive, and when the news came out people were understandably outraged.^[8]

4 Haunted Items For Sale On eBay

Hundreds of years ago, if two dark magicians wanted to trade haunted items they might do so at a discrete midnight rendezvous. Under the cover of darkness, far for the prying eyes of any lynch mobs or witchfinder generals, the occultists would go about their shadowy business. These days, the buying and selling of macabre trinkets is much less clandestine. Fancy treating yourself to a haunted figurine, or maybe a possessed marionette? No bother, just look on eBay.

The e-commerce site might seem fairly innocuous, but beneath the surface lies an entire industry dedicated to the sale of haunted items, predominantly dolls. For the right price you might be able to bag yourself Polly, a wide-eyed figurine who is apparently able to mess with the temperature of the room. Or perhaps Charles, a woolly-haired clown, who is said to be fond of banging doors and letting out the occasional howl. These paranormal collectibles retail at anywhere from a few tens of dollars to the best part of $7,000. The suppliers, however, insist they have no interest in profit; their only aim is to help the spirits inside the dolls find peace.^[9]

3 Coven Meetings On Zoom

Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble. The archetypal witches’ coven is the one set out by William Shakespeare in his classic 17th century play Macbeth. Lurking malevolently in the shadows, the weird sisters conjure up all manner of twister incantations to wreak havoc over the Scottish King and his associates. But imagine the Bard were born four hundred years later, and decided to write his play in the year 2020. Under quarantine his witches would meet, not in thunder, lightning, or in rain, but sat in front of a laptop screen conversing over Zoom.

It sounds ridiculous, but the covid-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of modern life, and ritual magic is no exception. Witches from across the world have been forced to stop convening face-to-face and take their meetings online. But the covens are using the time productively, teaching each other to read tarot cards, practicing occult writing, and sharing readings from books and scriptures, all via the power of online video conferencing. In fact, when one shop in Michigan decided to celebrate the Spring Equinox on Facebook Live, they received a record turnout, with some 4,000 people choosing to participate.^[10]

2 WitchBlr

The online dark arts boom has attracted people from all walks of life, and that includes multi-platinum musicians. In 2017, Lana Del Rey revealed herself to be “a bit of a mystic at heart” and announced her intentions to place a curse on Donald Trump. Del Rey’s proclamation was met with rapturous enthusiasm, especially on Tumblr, where occult practices have been flourishing over the last few years.

Tumblr’s witchcraft community – or WitchBlr as they describe themselves – is a thriving subculture. Across the site, wannabe mystics can learn a vast range of occult traditions, from crystals and candles to curses and palm reading. WitchBlr is a highly-stylized mix of cultural teachings, discussions, and wholesome means. Now, with the endorsement of “pagan pop star” Lana Del Rey, these young enthusiastic occultists hope their community will reach an even wider audience in years to come.^[11]

1 Church of Kek

As seen earlier in this article, witchcraft and sorcery have found huge popularity among the Biden-supporting liberals of the United States. But the Democrats are not the only ones who are now enamored with the supernatural. The dark arts renaissance is gripping people across the political spectrum, from the anti-capitalists of the far-left to the internet-loving alt-right.

In fact, many of the alt-right have begun to create their own quasi-religion, a Pepe The Frog-inspired craze known as the Cult Of Kek. Although the Cult Of Kek is undeniably a child of the internet, its roots stretch back to ancient Egypt. In the age of pyramids and sphinxes, people believed in a mischievous deity known as Kek, who ripped through the country causing mayhem and had the head of a frog.

For the Pepe-obsessed alt-right, a god that combines both mischief and frogs seemed too perfect to resist. Hence the Cult Of Kek was born, the semi-ironic online movement whose power is said to lie in the strength of meme magic. Followers of the cult, which one member described as “very funny and at the same time very serious”, are said to use trolling as a form of incantation. Back in 2016, Kek-followers inundated their social media feeds with endless Donald Trump Pepe memes in an attempt to sway the US elections.

“By saturating the web with these images of Pepe, they were trying to somehow make reality reflect the net,” explained Gary Lachman, an expert in modern mysticism. “It wouldn’t be the first time that extreme right conservative groups have employed the supernatural. The Nazis did exactly that. Creating a narrative and associated belief system has always been used as propaganda.”^[12]

10 Modern Attempts To Police The Occult

Forget about Kylie Jenner, Selena Gomez, and Beyonce—dog influencers are taking over the Instagram spotlight. Just like big celebrities, the dogs of Instagram maintain their wealth and elite status through sponsorships, event appearances, modeling, and more.

It starts with a brand approaching the owner to form a partnership. Once a dog’s account reaches one million followers, the owner should expect a payout of up to $16,000 per post. According to Brittany Hennessy, senior director of influencer strategy at Hearst Digital Media, the average rate for a human influencer with over a million followers sits at a mere $7,500.

Ready to quit your day job yet?

Stay tuned, we’ve only scratched the surface of this modern-day phenomenon. With the Internet and social media culture nowadays, the possibilities in this field are endless. Here are the top 10 dogs on social media that make more money than doctors.

10 Weird Facts About Dogs

10 @lacorgi

According to this corgi’s page, he’s a “professional butt model” based in Los Angeles. His strengths include eating cheese, playing dead, and teleportation. His weakness is his extremely short legs.

Perusing his profile, you’ll find him frolicking in the sand, cruising in a mini convertible, playing the piano, and managing his bank account like the financially responsible dog that he is. My personal favorite: his take on an episode of Law & Order which tragically ends in his imprisonment. The orange jumpsuit was cute, though.^[1]

9 @maggielovesorbit

This dynamic duo consists of two Boston terrier sisters who “believe in making every moment count.” They are not only the stars of their account on Instagram but also have a website that features their weekly health and wellness blog.

Additionally, the dogs are Amazon affiliates, meaning they have a page on Amazon where you can purchase their favorite products. They receive a portion of the profits. Plus, these terriers are available for dog modeling.^[2]

8 @tuckerbudzyn

Do you follow this golden retriever on TikTok?

That’s right, Instagram isn’t the only platform on which this dog is famous. Tucker even has an account on Reddit. Upon further investigation, some of his favorite activities include eating raw beef, pretending to be a lion, and “sliding into your DMs.”

Tucker is most famous for videos of his owner blowing a powerful air hose at him, causing his long hair to flow in the wind while music plays. It’s only a matter of time before Pantene recruits him to be in one of their commercials. With over 12 million combined followers, this retriever isn’t afraid to use his all-natural gourmet meals to flex on you.^[3]

7 @tunameltsmyheart

Tuna the chiweenie proves to be a positive role model for dogs and humans alike. Despite his facial deformity, he spreads “joy & laughter” to every one of his two million followers.

His Instagram profile features one of his seemingly psychotic episodes in which he runs in circles and lunges at his owner, trying to grab a sloth toy. He is also seen wearing a homemade leaf helmet, listening to John Legend, and eating tortilla chips in honor of “National Tortilla Chip Day.”

If you’d like to accompany him on his journey around the world, you can follow his second account, @thetravelingtuna. And if that’s not enough, follow his third account, @moretuna, which focuses on his caring, philanthropic side.^[4]

6 @tecuaniventura

We have no idea how to pronounce this bulldog’s name, but we do know that he can rock any outfit on the planet. From cowboy to ballerina to Chewbacca from Star Wars, this dog has a bigger salary than you and a bigger wardrobe.

Does it have 50 different personalities or just enjoy fashion a little too much? Unfortunately, we’ll never know. Tecuani appears to speak Russian. According to Google Translate, his bio tells us that he is a “bulldog blogger [who] dreams to lose weight.”^[5]

10 Extraordinary Dogs That Saved Lives

5 @jiffpom

Feel free to text this dog at 310-438-5114. With a whopping 10 million followers on Instagram alone, he’d better be on an unlimited phone plan. His most recent video shows him dancing to a song featuring the popular rapper Nicki Minaj. One characteristic that sets this dog apart is his excessive fluffiness. His enormous Afro makes him an icon.

Unlike his counterparts, Jiff is a dog of few words. Many of his captions consist of just emojis. When you have a face that cute, you must not need all the bells and whistles.^[6]

4 @marniethedog

Let us have a moment of silence for this next dog. Marnie, who passed away “painlessly & peacefully” in March 2020, has nearly two million loyal Instagram followers. On her profile, you can view her highlight reels titled “R.I.P.” and “R.I.P. #2.”

She lived a long, eventful life and was known for her floppy tongue that hung uncontrollably out of her mouth. Scrolling through her pictures, you may notice pop artist Demi Lovato, tongue out, posed with Marnie.^[7]

3 @bronsonthebully

The best thing about this dog is his COVID-19 relief fundraiser. It’s good to know that he’s doing his part to flatten the curve. His favorite foods are carrots and watermelon, and his theme song is “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus.

Bronson’s bio describes him as a “cuddly, loving, goofy sack of potatoes!” Whether he’s a potato or a bulldog, catch him this summer at PETCON 2020 in Chicago. Yes, PETCON is a real thing where certain pets are paid to make appearances.

Along with many others, this influencer is managed by The Dog Agency, a New York City company that represents popular pet figures around the globe. The Dog Agency offers their connections with prominent news outlets and media platforms to cater to pet influencers and facilitate their growth.^[8]

2 @itsdougthepug

This pug influencer can be seen with over 30 celebrities including Katy Perry, Amy Schumer, Michael Strahan, Shakira, and the cast of Stranger Things. Products from Doug’s clothing line are available on his website or at Claire’s. Complement your pug sweatshirt with Doug the Pug Skechers, or pick up Doug’s book at The Scholastic Store.

What’s that song on the radio? Oh, that was Doug’s song, “Song for My Dog,” streaming from Spotify.

According to his Instagram bio, Doug is the “King of Pop Culture” and a “People’s Choice Award Winner.” Although it sounds a little suspicious, he did, in fact, win the People’s Choice Award for Animal Star of 2019. Many animals were nominated, but Doug reigned supreme. His acceptance speech was heartfelt.^[9]

1 @griffinfrenchie

These may not be the most popular pups on Instagram, but they’re number one when it comes to dog autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR). French bulldogs Griffin and Haru specialize in snorting and smacking their lips loudly into microphones for their viewers’ listening pleasure.

On their YouTube channel, they have food reviews in which fans can gauge how much the dogs enjoyed the meal by the intensity and volume of their snorting noises. They also partake in “mukbang.” According to Urban Dictionary, mukbang is a trend that involves “eating copious amounts of food” on camera for “entertainment purposes.”

So, put on your headphones, sit back, and relax while you listen to two French bulldogs scarf down an entire rotisserie chicken.^[10]

Top 10 Fascinating Facts About The Mind Of A Dog

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) COVID-19, “…spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) for a prolonged period.”

Top 10 Striking Images That Show Covid-19’s Impact On The World

By now, this is old news. Most of us are fully aware of the dangers of getting too close to others while the coronavirus is out there. The few times we are out and about, during any given week, most of us dutifully practice “social distancing”.

Unfortunately, some people are not down with the whole 6 feet apart rule. Sadly, some hate it so much that the mere polite attempt to enforce it sends them into a fit of rage.

The following are 10 crazy examples of social distancing gone wrong.

10 Crazed Couple Assaults Hassidic Jews

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some countries have come up with very novel and technologically advanced ways to enforce social distancing guidelines. In Singapore, for example, they have hired a robot dog (developed by Boston Dynamics) named Spot to patrol park areas and, using a polite but firm female voice, to tell citizens, “Let’s keep Singapore healthy. For your own safety, and for those around you, please stand at least one meter apart. Thank you.”^[1]

What do you do if you don’t have a robot dog available in your area to remind people to practice social distancing? Well, you definitely don’t do what a couple in Brooklyn, New York did back in early May.

Deputizing themselves as Social Distancing Officers, Paul and Clelia Pinho (AKA Kevin and Karen) then immediately went all out bonkers.

While driving in Brooklyn one Sunday night, Paul and Clelia spotted a large group of Hassidic Jews gathered together outside. The couple immediately stopped their vehicle, jumped out and rushed towards them. They hurled Anti-Semetic insults at them, saying, “You’re the reason why we’re getting sick.”

Paul called the cops and then, not content to wait for the authorities to sort this all out, tried to rip off the masks of three of the Hassidic men. That triggered a fight. The couple was then subdued by a volunteer watch group named Shomrim patrol. They held the attacking couple until the police arrived.

The couple was taken to hospital where Paul received treatment for an injury to his arm. His wife was treated for minor injuries.

Mayor Bill De Blasio was disgusted by the incident saying, “We don’t accept bias in New York City. We don’t accept hate in any form.”^[2][3]

9 Kissing Bandit Calls Cops On Bar

While the reasons behind some citizen attempts to police social distancing at least have a bit of logic going for them, the same cannot be said for a Florida woman named Audra Adams.

The Monkey Bar and Grille in Indialantic was the scene of this very curious, self-defeating case of social distancing gone wrong.

Upset that the bar was not practicing coronavirus social distancing guidelines, Adams called the police not one time, not two times, but five times. The weird part of it all was that Adams, herself, was repeatedly trying to kiss other bar patrons.

The bar’s owner told police that Adams’ repeated attempts to lay a smooch on every stranger within reach was, no surprise here, not going down well. After a few complaints, he asked her to leave.

Adams eventually did exit the bar, but refused to leave the parking lot, saying, “I’ll sit in the parking lot all night.”

Police ended up arresting her for disorderly conduct, resisting an officer without violence and for misusing the 911 system.^[4]

8 Supermarket Showdown

Supermarket shopping during the COVID-19 pandemic has seen many changes including: the increase of cleaning and sanitation measures; the reduction of store hours; the closing of bulk counters, soup bars, olive bars and self-serve hot tables; markings on the floor to prompt shoppers to stay 6 feet apart from one another and reserving the first hour of every day exclusively to senior citizens.^[5]

Clearly, a low stress, once a week trip to stock up on food and other essentials has now, due to the pandemic, turned into something far more tricky and far more stressful.

One poor soul found out the hard way just how much things have changed. He had just finished shopping and was heading home when he stopped and put his bags on the ground. Three men approached him. He asked them to adhere to social distancing rules. They, instead, flipped out.

One of the three, an 18 year-old man from Milton, went ballistic. A fight broke out and the 18 year-old attacker fled the scene.

Thankfully, he was found and arrested about a month later.^[6]

7 Triggered Man Pulls Out Gun

Who knew that forming a line could be so fraught with tension these days?

Waiting in line is just a fact of life. Everybody, at one time or another, has to do it and even on a good day it isn’t exactly a blast. But, wait we do.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, waiting in line has introduced another wrinkle—social distancing. For one man, that was one wrinkle too much.

While waiting in a line outside Citizens Bank in Boston, in early May of this year, Ricardio Pantojas, 40, was, apparently, too close to another customer waiting in that same line. The other customer asked Ricardio to back away and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Ricardio had other ideas.

“When asked to move away, the male suspect refusing to practice social distancing and adhere to the line restrictions, brandished a firearm and pointed it in the direction of the victims,” police said. “Before police arrived, the male suspect and a female accomplice jumped into a motor vehicle and fled the scene.”

Police later tracked down the couple. When they searched their car, they found a Bersa .380 semi-automatic.

The police hit Ricardio with a number of charges, including: carrying a loaded firearm on a public way.^[7][8]

6 Jogging Ain’t What It Used To Be

COVID-19 has changed our lives in a lot of ways. One of the more obvious changes has required us to stay at home much more often than we are used to. Naturally, spending most of our time inside four walls can give us a bit of cabin fever. So, trips outside, however brief, can provide a bit of relief.

For one Cambridge, Massachusetts jogger, his bit of relief turned into a bit of a nightmare.

According to the jogger, as he approached a man walking with his two young children, he told the three that he was going to jog onto the street to give them the necessary social distancing space. Then, at some point during the jogger’s explanation, the man pulled out a knife and told him to, “get the ‘expletive’ on the other side of the street.”

Later, Police did find a man that fit the jogger’s description. That man denied pulling a knife on him. The officers searched the man but did not find the weapon. Later on, however, police did find a 4 inch blade in a yard bag a short walk from where they spoke to the man.

Regardless, the jogger decided not to press charges.^[9]

Top 10 Historic Ways To Beat Plagues

5 Doctor Diagnosed With Short Temper

Among the groups of people who have emerged as heroes during the COVID-19 pandemic, medical workers are likely the most deserving of that distinction. Though under threat of being infected themselves, by the very patients they treat, their vital work has inspired a tremendous outpouring of gratitude from the public as well as countless news items documenting their bravery.^[10]

One doctor who will definitely not receive any glowing write ups anytime soon is Dr. John Rademaker, 57, of Prospect, Kentucky. And it was all captured on video.

In the first few seconds, we see a verbal confrontation between two groups of people—an older man and a woman and several younger women. One of the young women can be heard saying, “Yeah, we’re leaving…please, let’s not cuss at each other.” Then, a few seconds later, the same young woman says, “No, I’m not calling you anything, sir, just don’t talk to us with -”

That’s when she’s cut off by Dr. Rademaker, who points a finger at a girl off screen and says, “This ‘bleep’ girl right here.” He then approaches the young women as the camera follows. Just as one of the young women says, “Do not touch -”, he does—shoving a few of them.

From there, all hell breaks loose as Dr. Rademaker approaches another young woman who is lying on the ground. Suddenly, he drops down and, according to reports, he then, “grabbed her neck.”

Panicked, the young women began screaming and yelling. Incredibly, within seconds, a simple social distancing squabble had turned into a violent attack.

In the aftermath, Dr. Rademaker was charged with first-degree strangulation and three counts of harassment with physical contact. The organization of which he was a part, The Southern Indiana Anesthesia Consultants, placed him on leave. Then, he voluntarily resigned his position.

According to three witnesses, the nine young women had come to the spot to watch the sunset.^[11]

4 Grocery Store Assault

Waiting in line at your local grocery store during the COVID-19 pandemic has become an adjustment for everyone and an ongoing exercise in trusting your fellow shopper. Everyone has to cooperate or else, the spread of COVID-19 can take place.

At one grocery store in Sydney, Australia, a woman in her late 50s was standing in line at the checkout when a man behind her got a little too close for her liking. She turned around and asked him to take a step back. The man, caught on video surveillance, didn’t take kindly to the woman’s suggestion. When she was busy paying for her groceries, he hit her in the back of the head with a bottle. The man then fled the store.

The woman was treated and taken to hospital as a precaution.

Soon afterwards, the police spotted the man in a nearby park. When they approached him, the man pulled out a meat cleaver. The police tasered and arrested him.^[12]

3 Mask Request Leads To Killing

Social distancing can be enhanced with the wearing of a mask. The Mayo Clinic advises people to wear a cloth mask because, “…cloth masks can help reduce the spread of the coronavirus by people who have COVID-19 but don’t realize it.”^[13]

Sadly, not only do some people refuse to wear a mask when out in public, but a few take such an extreme position that violence soon follows.

That is what happened at a Family Dollar store in Flint, Michigan earlier this year. A security guard, Calvin Munerlyn, 43, was just doing his job when he asked a customer to put on a mask to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Instead of complying, the woman left the store. Her mother, Sharmel Teague and Munerlyn then got into a shouting match. That’s when Munerlyn asked her to leave the store, too. She did.

At the time, under an executive order from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, all retail employees and customers had to wear a mask.

Twenty minutes later, two men came into the store—one was Sharmel’s husband. He started yelling at Munerlyn for disrespecting his wife. The other man then pulled out a gun and shot and killed Munerlyn right then and there.

Ramonyea Travon Bishop, 23, Larry Edward Teague, 44 and Sharmel Teague, 45, were charged with first-degree premeditated murder.

Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton summed up the sad situation, saying, “From all indications, Mr. Munerlyn was simply doing his job in upholding the Governor’s Executive Order related to the COVID-19 pandemic for the safety of store employees and customers.”

Munerlyn’s distraught cousin, Tina James, added, “This is senseless. Over a mask. Over a mask? This is not the way to do things right now. We need to come together.”

A devastating loss for the community, they all came together and held a candlelight vigil in Munerlyn’s honor.^[14][15]

2 Man Records And Celebrates Partiers Defying Stay At Home Order

On March 22, 2020, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced a “stay-at-home order.”^[16] In Section 3 of the order, it explicitly says, “Any gathering of ten people is prohibited unless exempted by this Order.”

Not even a month later, a group of young people decided to have a party. On hand to record the festivities was 25 year-old Rashaan Davis. He not only recorded the party, he uploaded it to YouTube.

During the video, Davis can be heard saying, “”This is how we do it in my city, man. We don’t give a (expletive) about this coronavirus.” Party goers were standing on cars and dancing to the music.

In Police documents, Davis is accused of violating the stay-at-home order as well as encouraging others to violate the order.^[17]

1 Park Ranger Pushed Into Lake

Austin Parks Foundation, in Austin, Texas, took COVID-19 very seriously by releasing guidelines for citizens using their parks. Though urging people to stay at home, to those who used the parks to get some much needed fresh air, the APF recommended that they not touch playscapes, swings, tables & benches, fitness equipment, athletic equipment or water fountains.^[18]

They should have added park rangers to the list.

In a video of the incident, a park ranger can be seen, standing on the edge of a lake, calmly explaining the social distancing guidelines to a group of young people. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a guy pushes him into the water. The pusher, himself, also fell in. He quickly got out and ran away.

The video ends as the Park Ranger gets back up, exits the water and heads in the direction of the guy who pushed him in.

Later, police arrested 25 year-old Brandon Hicks with attempted assault on a public service worker and damaging city property.

Kimberly McNeeley, an Austin parks & recreation department director, issued a statement on the incident, saying, “Our rangers continue to engage residents on the proper use of park facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. We ask that the public treat Rangers with the same respect they wish to be shown to themselves. Public support is essential for Austin to meet the challenges of this pandemic.”^[19]

Top 10 Unsolved Mysteries Of The COVID-19 Pandemic

About The Author: Domenico De Luca has been writing for thirty years—screenplays, short stories and songs making up the vast majority of his output. He is a film buff with his very own blog called so many films, so little time. He is also a music addict and devoted lifelong fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Viral social media trends are usually harmless stuff like dancing or cats doing something specific and hilarious, though they can easily get out of hand if left unchecked. There have been quite a few bizarre – and sometimes downright dangerous – trends that went popular on websites like YouTube or TikTok in the past few years. Some of them – like the infamous Salt and Ice Challenge – even caused quite a few real-life injuries, forcing local authorities and social media networks to intervene and restrict them until they died down. 

10. 100 Layers Challenge

While not as dangerous as some of the other trends on this list, the 100 Layers Challenge was still a bizarre and pointless trend that managed to gain viral recognition. As the name suggests, it involved applying 100 layers of any product, usually makeup or clothing, and sharing it online. The challenge was first started by a beauty vlogger back in 2016, when she uploaded a video of applying 116 coats of nail paint to her YouTube channel. 

Despite its relatively-harmless nature, the 100 Layers Challenge became a hugely-popular social media trend, with videos attempting it garnering millions of impressions overnight. It was particularly popular among beauty enthusiasts and social media influencers, as everyone raced to see how far they could take the concept. The experiments included traditional 100-layer products like mascara, lipstick, foundation, and various types of clothes, while others went for the more unconventional options like face masks and hair extensions.

9. Halo Brows

Halo brows were largely an Instagram trend that became popular some time in 2018, spreading to other networks like TikTok and YouTube in a short span of time. Also called reverse unibrows, it involves creating a rounded brow shape that appears to be connected above the bridge of the nose with a variety of makeup techniques, creating a halo-like effect around the forehead. 

According to Cosmopolitan, the idea first showed up in an Instagram post by a 16-year old Britisher called Hannah Lyne, which inspired other people to try out their own halo brow designs and get the trend going. When it reached its peak in 2019, makeup artists and influencers across the Internet were experimenting with it, turning it into one of the most popular social media trends of the time. 

8. Devious Licks

According to Urban Dictionary, a lick is a ‘successful type of theft which results in an acceptable, impressive and rewarding payday for the protagonist’. Some time in September 2021, students in schools across America took to filming themselves stealing or vandalizing school property, and then posting the videos on social media with the hashtag #deviouslicks. While it started on TikTok, the phenomenon soon spread to other platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

It mostly gained popularity due to the shock factor of the videos, which showed students stealing everything from soap dispensers to fire extinguishers from school premises. As it grew, however, #deviouslicks got a lot more extreme, with reports of students stealing things like entire classroom doors and causing thousands of dollars in damage. While it was eventually restricted by social media networks and died down, Devious Licks – also called Diabolical Licks or Dastardly Licks – led to thousands of dollars in damages across the United States. 

7. Fire Challenge

The Fire Challenge was a TikTok trend that first gained popular attention in 2014, when a slew of accidents left many of its participants severely burned and injured. At its most basic, it involved people dousing themselves with various flammable substances and setting themselves on fire in different ways. The challenge quickly gained niche popularity on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, though it really went mainstream when a 15-year-old from Kentucky suffered high degree burns after attempting it, followed by numerous other cases of severe injury and hospitalization. 

The Fire Challenge received backlash from health officials, disaster experts, and parents, as well as widespread media coverage from major news outlets across America. Despite that, it had become a viral sensation by 2015, with thousands of videos and social media posts featuring people attempting the dangerous stunt. Thankfully, the challenge was eventually banned by social media networks like TikTok and Facebook. 

6. Condom Snorting

Snorting condoms as a sport may date back to at least 2007, when a video featuring the act was first uploaded to YouTube. However, the trend gained widespread attention only in 2018, after a video of a teenager doing it went viral on social media. Like it sounds, it involves people inhaling a condom through one nostril and, hopefully, pulling it out from the mouth. Like other incredibly-dangerous, possibly-life-threatening trends that have gone popular in the past, condom snorting quickly spread on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, with mostly teenagers attempting the challenge and sharing videos online.

As you’d expect, condom snorting in any way could be really dangerous and lead to serious health problems. The condom might get lodged in the nasal cavity or throat, leading to choking, suffocation, and respiratory problems. In addition, the latex material can cause irritation and allergic reactions, leading to infections and other complications. 

5. Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge

Some time in 2015, people on social media decided that they’d try to recreate Kylie Jenner’s lips as accurately as they could, sparking off a trend we now know as the Kylie Jenner Lip Challenge. Of course, as one can’t just change the kind of lips they have, it involved many resorting to methods like using a shot glass or other homemade suction devices to create a vacuum around their lips, resulting in swollen, plump-looking lips. 

The challenge quickly went viral, as everyone shared their own versions of Kylie Jenner’s lips across Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. While it started out as a relatively-harmless trend, many doctors and other medical experts warned against attempting it, as it can potentially lead to bruising, broken blood vessels, and, in some cases, permanent scarring. In addition, the increased blood flow due to the vacuum could also cause persistent swelling and pain lasting for several days.

4. Salt And Ice Challenge

The Salt and Ice Challenge was another dangerous-yet-popular challenge that went viral, surfacing some time in 2017 on video-based networks like YouTube and TikTok. The idea was simple – put some salt on your skin and press an ice cube on the area. The overall goal was to endure the burning and freezing sensations for as long as possible and sharing the results with other people online, as the entire thing was usually filmed and posted on social media.

It soon became popular among teenagers and young adults online, as the videos quickly spread and went viral. Of course, the trend led to many real-life injuries, as putting salt and ice on your skin can cause the temperature of the skin to drop rapidly, leading to tissue damage and other medical complications like frostbite and third-degree burns. Despite numerous warnings from health professionals, however, the challenge remained popular on the Internet until it was banned by some social media networks. 

3. Pimple Popping

Many dermatologists and other medical experts strongly advise against popping pimples in any way, as it tends to exacerbate a relatively-harmless and common medical problem. Still, pimple popping is a hugely-popular social media trend on websites like YouTube, as videos of the act still garner millions of views. For one example, a channel called Dr. Pimple Popper has gained more than 7.4 million subscribers since it started in 2010 (as well as spawning a reality series of the same name on TLC), making it one of the most popular topics on YouTube. 

Scientifically speaking, we have no idea why the idea is so popular among some people, as videos of popping pimples are inherently disgusting to many others. According to studies, it could be related to the differences in everyone’s inbuilt disgust mechanism, which is why some people can easily watch violent and explicit horror movies while others can’t. 

2. Hot Water Challenge

The Hot Water Challenge was a social media trend that mostly involved people pouring boiling water on themselves or other unsuspecting victims, though there were also a few notable variations, like sipping boiling hot water through a straw. The challenge first featured on news outlets in 2017, when it caused severe burns, hospitalization, and other harmful consequences for many of its participants. In one particularly tragic case, an 8-year-old girl in Florida died after drinking hot water through a straw, finally bringing popular attention to the dangerous trend. 

Like many other trends on this list, the Hot Water challenge became increasingly popular among younger people. Videos across YouTube featured children and younger teens attempting the stunt, resulting in a visit to the hospital for many of them. The phenomenon eventually died down due to the amount of pushback by parents and medical experts, though not before causing second and third-degree burns for many of its victims. 

1. Eyeball Tattoos

The idea of tattoos on eyeballs might make a few people uneasy, though in the tattoo and general body-modification community, it’s not as far-fetched as it might sound. Eyeball tattoos gained traction some time in 2017, when a few enthusiasts online started tattooing their eyeballs in various styles and sharing the techniques online. As one would expect, it involved injecting ink directly into the white of the eye, potentially causing permanent damage to the delicate tissues of the eye and other long-term medical issues.

Despite all that, the trend gained popularity in tattoo and other niche communities on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Since it became popular, the online phenomenon has been widely criticized by medical experts, who continue to warn of the potential dangers of the procedure. If done incorrectly, eye tattoos can cause severe and permanent damage to the eye, as well as other issues like infections.

In a world where social norms subtly shape our behaviors and interactions, it’s easy to overlook the intricacies of everyday conventions. Delving beneath the surface of our routines unveils a fascinating tapestry of unspoken rules that govern our society. From greetings that dictate the course of conversations to the subtle art of personal space, this article uncovers ten social conventions you might be taking for granted.

Related: 10 Things Normal In The US That Are Strange In Other Places

10 Greeting People

Let’s talk about that classic “Hey there, how’s it going?” routine we all do. You know, the one where we nod our heads, slap on a smile, and ask about someone’s well-being as if we’re the best of pals. It’s like a universal script we follow, a dance of pleasantries that we’ve all learned by heart.

But have you ever stopped to wonder why we do this? I mean, it’s not like we genuinely want to know how everyone we encounter feels, right? Well, it’s all about the magic of social conventions. These unspoken rules help us navigate the labyrinth of human interaction without getting lost.

Sure, sometimes we’re just going through the motions, and the answer is almost always a casual “I’m good, thanks!” or a “Can’t complain.” It’s like we’re in a politeness ping-pong match where the score never changes. Yet this ritual is more than just words—it’s a way of saying, “Hey, I acknowledge your existence, and I hope you’re having an okay day.”

The next time you find yourself mid-greeting, remember that you’re participating in a centuries-old tradition of acknowledging others and spreading positivity. Whether you’re a fan of it or not, this quirky little convention is one of those things that keeps the social wheels turning.

9 Covering Your Cough

How about one of those unsung heroes of social conventions—covering your mouth when you cough? It might seem like a no-brainer, but trust me, it’s a gem of a habit we often overlook.

Sure, sometimes it’s easier to just let that cough fly, especially when you’re in a rush. But grabbing your elbow and giving a gentle cough into it can make a world of difference. Not only does it prevent a germy explosion, but it shows that you’re thinking beyond your own bubble.

This simple gesture goes a long way in today’s world, where hygiene is the word of the day. It’s like a secret handshake between responsible adults, silently saying, “Hey, I’ve got your back, and I’m not about to spread my coughing symphony all over the place.” So, remember—your elbow is the superhero cape your fellow humans need.

8 Waiting Your Turn

Waiting your turn might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s a social convention that keeps our daily interactions from turning into a chaotic free-for-all. Think about it—whether you’re at the grocery store checkout, waiting for your caffeine fix at the local café, or just queuing up for the restroom at a concert, the unspoken rule is pretty clear: Stand in line and wait your turn.

Sure, it might feel a tad frustrating when you’re desperately craving that double-shot latte, and the line seems to stretch to infinity. But the alternative would be everyone jostling for the front spot, elbowing each other, and giving rise to a whole new level of awkwardness. Plus, waiting in line isn’t all bad—it gives you a chance to people-watch, catch up on texts, or simply take a moment to zone out.

Just imagine the chaos if this social convention didn’t exist. The barista would have a meltdown, you’d be playing bumper cars with fellow shoppers, and restroom lines would turn into a WWE match. So the next time you find yourself twiddling your thumbs in line, remember that this seemingly small courtesy is actually a big deal in maintaining some semblance of order in our bustling world.

7 Speaking Softly in Quiet Places

You know the drill—you’re in a library, a museum, or even a cozy coffee shop, and suddenly, your voice drops to a barely audible whisper. It’s like a reflex that kicks in as soon as you enter a hushed environment.

Sure, it might seem a bit funny—I mean, who’s going to shush you if you accidentally let out a giggle at a museum exhibit? But think about it: This social convention is actually pretty cool. It’s all about respect and creating a harmonious atmosphere for everyone. Nobody wants to be the person who disrupts the peace with a booming conversation about last night’s TV show or their fight that morning with their partner.

It’s like we have this unwritten agreement that we’re all in this together, navigating the waters of quietude. Speaking softly in these places isn’t just about keeping noise levels down; it’s a way of showing consideration for those around you. It’s like a gentle reminder that we’re sharing a space, and let’s make it enjoyable for everyone.

6 Respecting Your Elders

Respecting your elders might sound like an old-school concept, but there’s some wisdom in it, right? It’s not just about holding the door open for your grandma or grandpa (although that’s nice too). This social convention is like a secret recipe for maintaining a well-balanced society.

Those folks who’ve been around the block a few times have stories that can make your jaw drop faster than a roller coaster. They’ve seen things, lived through wild times, and probably have more life lessons than your favorite self-help book. Giving them respect isn’t just about acknowledging their age; it’s about recognizing the treasure trove of experiences tucked under their belt.

Respecting elders isn’t just an age-old cliché; it’s like paying tribute to the OGs of life. And let’s face it, one day, you’re going to be the elder in the room, and you’d probably want some whipper-snapper to treat you like the legend you are.

5 Facing the Front in an Elevator

Standing facing the front in an elevator might seem mundane, but it’s one of those quirky social conventions we all unconsciously follow without even realizing it. It’s like elevator magic!

Why do we do this? Well, for starters, it’s all about personal space. Nobody wants to feel like they’re under a microscope, right? Facing forward ensures that everyone gets a little breathing room and avoids awkward accidental eye contact.

It’s not just about personal bubbles, though. Standing facing the front is also a nifty trick to avoid potentially uncomfortable situations. Imagine if everyone decided to turn around and engage in a staring contest (creepy, right?). So we avoid the potential for weirdness and keep our noses pointed at the ever-so-fascinating elevator doors.

The next time you hop into an elevator and automatically pivot to face the front, give yourself a pat on the back for being a social convention champ. It’s like a secret dance we all know, a ritual that keeps our daily rides smooth and glitch free.

4 Table Manners

Table manners might seem like a relic from the past, but trust me, they’re still relevant today. We’re not talking about having a full-on Downton Abbey formal dinner every night, but a little dose of politeness can go a long way.

First up, the basics. Chew with your mouth closed. Nobody wants to see your food transformed into a science experiment. And let’s keep the elbows off the table, shall we? I mean, we’re not lounging on a beanbag – it’s a table, not a comfy couch.

Then there’s the magical world of utensils. Start from the outside and work your way in with the cutlery—it’s like a culinary treasure hunt. And if you’re baffled by the array of forks and knives, just follow the lead of the person who looks like they know what they’re doing.

But the pièce de résistance is smartphone étiquette. Yeah, we get it. Instagram-worthy food needs to be shared, but scrolling while others are tucking in is a no-no. Keep the screen time for later, and give your dining companions the attention they deserve.

3 Maintaining Eye Contact

Maintaining eye contact might seem like a small thing, but it’s actually a big deal in the world of social interactions. Think about it – when you’re talking to someone, and they’re not looking at you, it’s like they’re mentally checking out to another dimension. Not cool, right?

Keeping that gaze locked in is a sign that you’re present and engaged in the conversation. It shows that you’re not just physically there but mentally too. It’s like a secret signal that says, “Hey, I’m paying attention, and I care about what you’re saying.”

But don’t take it to the extreme and go staring-contest mode. That’s just plain creepy. A little eye contact goes a long way. It’s like a sprinkle of seasoning on a dish—too much, and you’ll ruin the whole thing.

Here’s a pro tip: If eye contact makes you feel like a deer caught in headlights, try the 3-second rule. Look into their eyes for about three seconds, then glance away briefly before coming back. It’s like a mini eye contact dance that keeps things from getting awkward.

2 Giving Personal Space

Personal space—it’s like the invisible force field that keeps us from going all Hulk on someone. We all have our “Do Not Cross” tape that we lay down around us without realizing it. You might be cool with your bestie getting all up in your grill, but a stranger? No way, José! It’s like a dance, a delicate balance of proximity and comfort. Too close, and you’re doing the awkward shuffle. Too far, and you’re shouting across the Grand Canyon.

So remember the sacred rule of personal space next time you chat. Keep a respectable distance and save yourself from those cringy, too-close encounters. It’s one of those social conventions that are like a silent agreement among humans—a universal language that says, “Let’s keep our cool and give each other some breathing room.”

1 Running or Walking without Gasping for Air

Have you ever joined a brisk walking group or decided to go for a run, only to find yourself huffing and puffing like a steam engine within the first few minutes? It’s like your lungs are staging a protest against this newfound activity. Well, fear not because there’s a trick to mastering the art of running or walking without sounding like Darth Vader on a jog.

First things first, pace yourself! It’s not a race to the finish line unless you’re actually in a race. Start slow, find a rhythm that suits your breathing, and stick to it. If you feel like you’re about to audition for a heavy-breathing ASMR channel, that’s a sign to dial it down a notch.

Breathing through your nose might seem like a no-brainer, but trust me. It’s a game-changer. It helps filter the air and warms it up before it enters your lungs, making the whole process much smoother. Plus, it’ll keep your mouth from feeling like the Sahara desert after your workout.

Another secret weapon? Focus on your exhales. Yup, you read that right. Make those exhales a bit longer than your inhales. This simple technique can help prevent that gasping-for-air sensation and keep your oxygen levels in check.

When the terms “troubling social trends” and “U.S. colleges” are used in tandem, the first things that come to mind are young-adult vices like binge drinking, fraternity hazing, and a heaping dose of HPV.

But alas, other worrisome habits have crept into many American colleges, and the consequences could be far more serious than a hangover, a few bruises, or an itching sensation down under. Welcome to higher learning in the era of all-things politically correct.

Related: 10 Most Absurd Things Banned On Politically Correct College Campuses

10 Self-Segregation

In a giant, progressive leap either forward or backward, Western Washington University recently debuted Black-only housing. Located about 90 miles south of Seattle, the small liberal arts school has designated the fourth floor of one of its largest dormitories for something called its “Black Affinity Program.”

Per the program’s website, the goal is to “explore and celebrate the diversity of Black and African American people and culture, with historical and contemporary context.” Oddly, the website also states that “Black Affinity Housing residents represent all diverse identities”—even though, by definition, they don’t. It intends to foster “a sense of belonging for all residents by creating a safe environment for open, honest, and sometimes challenging dialogue.” Exactly how “safe environments” invite “challenging dialogue” is up for debate.

Instances of self-segregation are becoming increasingly common at American colleges. The National Association of Scholars recently launched an initiative called “Separate But Equal, Again: Neo-Segregation in American Higher Education.”. Of the 173 universities it surveyed, 42% offer segregated residences, 46% offer segregated orientation programs, and a whopping 72% host segregated graduation ceremonies.

Granted, many colleges have historically been dominated by white students (and, more recently, Asian-Americans), leaving some Black students struggling to connect to their own culture at a pivotal time of self-exploration. Still, many student and education advocacy groups have disparaged the uptick in self-segregation, wondering aloud if it’s something that Martin Luther King, Jr. would have endorsed.^[1]

9 Anti-Meritocracy

In October 2021, Dorian Abbott, Associate Professor of Geophysical Sciences at the University of Chicago, was disinvited by MIT for a guest lecture he’d been scheduled to give. He must have been some whack-job arguing that the Earth was flat or that climate change doesn’t exist, right?

Wrong. The lecture was called “Climate and the Potential for Life on Other Planets,” a dissertation exploring how scientists factor in a planet’s likely climate when considering its potential for hosting organic life. It also details how astronomical observations indicate the possibility of new climatic regimes not found on modern Earth. Again, not exactly fodder for widespread protest.

Still, he must have done something terribly offensive outside the classroom for a science-driven institution like MIT to pull the plug. Maybe he’s a white supremacist? A serial sexual harasser? Rabidly anti-LGBTQ, perhaps?

Nope. Abbott’s horrific offense stemmed from an opinion piece he wrote for the non-partisan magazine Newsweek, in which he dared criticize current diversity, equity, and inclusion higher-education standards. In short, Abbott argues that these standards are anti-meritocracy. He suggests a new framework called “Merit, Fairness, and Equality” where students would be “treated as individuals” and “evaluated through rigorous and unbiased” processes based on qualifications. How unforgivable of him.

Fortunately for both Abbott and sanity, Princeton University subsequently invited him to give his lecture, which was so well-received that it required a cyber-conference expansion after its Zoom quota was reached.^[2]

8 Treating Moderates Like Radicals

Conservative speakers being disallowed or disinvited at American colleges is nothing new. Here’s a list dating back two decades, courtesy of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE).

Fortunately, the more overt attempts to suppress speech on campuses have diminished in recent years; in 2019, Commentary Magazine optimistically noted that, concerning free speech, things were “looking up.” And according to FIRE, university disinvitations peaked in 2016 and have slowly declined since.

In their stead, however, has been more insidious forms of gatekeeping—ones standing on the shoulders of decades of anti-conservative bias to cloak further favoritism in the veil of democracy. In January 2021, the National Review published a piece by the president of the right-leaning party of Princeton University’s bipartisan American Whig-Cliosophic Society, the nation’s oldest collegiate literary, political, and debate organization. The centuries-old institution foments the free exchange of ideas—the essence of higher learning.

Guest lecture invitations are decided by the Speakers Council via vote. Per the piece’s author, the left-leaning party had their speakers list rubberstamped with ease. Meanwhile, his party’s speaker list had two rejections deemed too controversial.

Among them—and this is truly nuts—was George Will, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and Washington Post columnist. He is among the most respected, reasonable journalists on either side of the political aisle—oh, and he’s also a Princeton ALUMNUS.^[3]

When an eloquent moderate conservative alumnus is treated as an ideological threat, there’s a big, big problem.

7 Banning Conservative Student Organizations

Perhaps even more worrisome than the disallowance of conservative guest speakers is the banning of conservative organizations comprised of paying customers: namely, students.

In 2017, the student senate at California’s Santa Clara University voted to reject the formation of a chapter of Turning Point USA, a conservative organization whose stated mission is to “identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote the principles of fiscal responsibility, free markets, and limited government.” So basically, mainstream American conservatism.

The final tally was 10 votes in favor, 16 against. According to student senate chair Neil Datar, “the final decision was a product of a rigorous, fair, and democratic process”—a reminder that undemocratic notions can be enabled by democracy itself. One senator who voted in favor of Turning Point USA, Ahmer Israr, echoed this sentiment: “It is a shame that 16 of my peers saw it fit to trample upon the rights of an intellectual minority group on campus by engaging in a tyranny of the majority.”

During deliberations, Israr and fellow senator David Warne emphasized the importance of intellectual freedom and diversity. Instead, an organization espousing views typical of one of the country’s two mainstream political parties was treated like an existential threat to a liberal-majority student body. One dissenter ascribed this to a “false sense of danger…that anyone who is vaguely conservative is a Nazi or a white supremacist.”^[4]

6 Illiberal Liberalism

It isn’t just conservative voices being silenced at American colleges. Similar treatment extends to many left-leaning educators deemed not sufficiently progressive. Such was the case with tenured Portland State University professor Peter Boghossian—who describes himself as a classical liberal who’s never voted for a Republican candidate.

As a philosophy professor, Boghossian exposed his students to a broad range of viewpoints. He regularly invited speakers on various topics—even if he didn’t share their opinions. “I invited those speakers not because I agreed with their worldviews,” he writes, “but primarily because I didn’t. From those messy and difficult conversations, I’ve seen the best of what our students can achieve: questioning beliefs while respecting believers, staying even-tempered in challenging circumstances, and even changing their minds.”

That sounds…well, like a philosophy professor doing his job.

Unfortunately, the persistent pushback he received is as unsurprising as it is unsettling. University officials, he continues, have “transformed a bastion of free inquiry into a Social Justice factory whose only inputs were race, gender, and victimhood and whose only outputs were grievance and division. Students at Portland State are not being taught to think. Rather, they are being trained to mimic the moral certainty of ideologues.”

Boghossian’s resignation letter reads like everything wrong with progressive collegiate groupthink. Not coincidentally, it was posted to the Substack page of Bari Weiss, a left-leaning opinion writer who claims she was drummed out of her role at The New York Times because she wasn’t progressive enough.^[5]

5 Abdicating Their Primary Purpose: Education

The Boghossian resignation letter (see previous entry) lays out, in eloquent fashion, personal experiences with broader trends on campuses across the U.S. Among these failures is what Borgossian sees as a diminished dedication to exposing students to new or unconventional ideas.

Per Boghossian: “Faculty and administrators have abdicated the university’s truth-seeking mission and instead drive intolerance of divergent beliefs and opinions.” Such actions, he points out, not only prevent opposing ideas from entering healthy academic dialogue but also train differently opinioned students to keep mum. “This,” he continues, “has created a culture of offense where students are now afraid to speak openly and honestly.”

The overarching theme was clear: conform, or else. Boghossian: “Questions from faculty at diversity trainings that challenged approved narratives were instantly dismissed. Those who asked for evidence to justify new institutional policies were accused of microaggressions. And professors were accused of bigotry for assigning canonical texts written by philosophers who happened to have been European and male.”

Or fired for showing critically-acclaimed films, for that matter.

This environment of virtue signaling, PC thought policing, and engagement hesitation (for fear of being shunned or canceled) sounds strikingly familiar. Specifically, it sounds like social media, only with IRL replacing URLs.

Worse, in not only allowing but encouraging this tepid tabooism, colleges are teaching those paying to be educated to limit their thoughts to rigidly accepted, strictly monitored limits. This groupthink, stay-inside-the-box mentality seems destined to churn out far more sheep than shepherds.^[6]

4 Deciding What’s Funny (and What Isn’t)

When I think “great sense of humor,” I think Woke college students. Not.

The pervasiveness of political correctness at American colleges has made them a no-go for an ever-growing list of comedians who have this crazy idea in their heads that stand-up comedy should be, well, funny. And irreverent.

This is not, let’s be clear, limited to conservative comedians. We’re not talking Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy on the Blue Collar Comedy Tour or even the rabidly anti-liberal Dennis Miller. Ultra-liberal Bill Maher has largely steered clear of campuses since 2014 when University of California Berkeley activists opposed his speaking at winter commencement because of past remarks criticizing Muslims during a stand-up act.

We’re not even talking about the most outlandish comedians. Jerry Seinfeld—who doesn’t do political material and rarely even swears—avoids playing colleges due to the hypersensitivity of students. “When you think about Jerry Seinfeld not being willing to do college campuses because of political correctness,” said former Seinfeld writer Peter Mehlman, “I think you got a real problem.”

And edgier comics? Forget it. Louis C.K., Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Pete Davidson—all sacrifice college gigs for their insistence that comedy presses buttons and pushes boundaries. Looking back, many of the best stand-up acts ever—Richard Pryor, George Carlin, Joan Rivers, Lenny Bruce—likely would have had similar misgivings.^[7]

3 Denying Due Process

The relatively newfound right of women subjected to sexual harassment, assault, or rape to have their voices heard is long overdue. Unfortunately, there’s a fine line between empowering women and leaving men completely defenseless—and many colleges cross that line.

Writing for the left-leaning magazine The Atlantic, Emily Yoffe penned a 2017 article discussing the loss of due process for men accused of inappropriate sexual conduct. “At many schools,” she writes, “the rules intended to protect victims of sexual assault mean students have lost their right to due process—and an accusation of wrongdoing can derail a person’s entire college education.”

This phenomenon, Yoffe explains, isn’t just straightforward accusations of “he forced himself on me.” Rather, these potentially life-ruining accusations often result from mutual encounters that ended with one party feeling slightly—and subjectively—uncomfortable.

Yoffe describes an incident where a woman performed oral sex on a man, who then cajoled her into sticking around a few minutes longer with a playful grab and kissing. She was fully clothed the whole time. Per her formal written accusation, it was only later that she “realized I’d been sexually assaulted.”

This led to cascading events that, ultimately, saw the man suspended, banned from campus housing, and suffering stress-related health problems so severe he needed to drop two classes. For Yoffe, the incident showcases how “many remedies that have been pushed on campus are unjust to men, and ultimately undermine the legitimacy of the fight against sexual violence.”^[8]

2 A Growing Gender Imbalance

The days of women playing catch-up in higher education are over—and then some. In fact, Googling the term “why aren’t men” and glancing at the autocomplete options, the very first one is “going to college.”

For the 2021-22 academic year, nearly 60% of college students are women—a gap that has been gradually widening for decades. This represents millions of fewer men at both two- and four-year colleges. (A half-century ago, those figures were almost exactly the opposite.) The trend seems to be accelerating: Over the past five years, overall U.S. college enrollment has declined by about one million students, with men accounting for more than 70% of this drop-off.

No consensus exists as to why men are now a marked minority at American colleges. Some experts point out that, in elementary and high schools, boys are more likely to be held back, drop out, or have trouble learning to read. Some economists suggest that men are likelier to feel the lure of a job immediately following high school, especially since the types of decent-paying jobs that don’t require college degrees—construction, law enforcement, etc.—skew male.

Regardless of the reason, there will likely be consequences. College graduates earn, on average, 56% more than high school graduates—a difference that amounts to over a million dollars of lifetime earnings. College grads are also far less likely to lose jobs during economic downturns and, socially, are generally happier, healthier, and enjoy more successful marriages.^[9]

1 Prompting a “Radical Centrist” Education Backlash

Though this final entry may eventually be seen as a positive trend, the fact that it’s even necessary is troubling. Quite simply, enough moderates on both sides of the ideological spectrum have had enough of this nonsense that they’ve gone ahead and founded their own college.

In early November 2021, news broke that several current and former Harvard University professors are helping establish the University of Austin, a Texas-based liberal arts school created to counter what its founders see as a culture of censorship in higher education.

In addition to politically centrist former New York Times columnist Bari Weiss—whose Substack page published the resignation letter referenced in two entries above—U of A founders include former Harvard President Lawrence H. Summers, Kennedy School professor Arthur C. Brooks, Psychology professor Steven A. Pinker, and Brown University economics professor Glenn C. Loury.

In an interview, Pinker said that “too many of the country’s universities are stuck in the same rut, and that rut includes exorbitant tuition, a mushrooming bureaucracy, a bizarre set of admissions criteria, and increasing political homogeneity, including repression of speech and ideas.”

Another co-founder, former St. John’s University president Panayiotis Kanelos, recalled Harvard’s motto—Veritas—before wondering aloud if “in these top schools, and in so many others, can we actually claim that the pursuit of truth—once the central purpose of a university—remains the highest virtue?”^[10]