How do movies influence us?
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Movies can profoundly influence us in various ways. Here are some key points discussed by experts on this topic:
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Desensitization to Violence: Watching violent movies can lead to decreased activation in the prefrontal cortex, which may make individuals more prone to impulsive or violent behavior temporarily. This effect depends on how engrossed a person gets with the film 1.
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Collective Experience: Movies serve as a modern form of collective storytelling, akin to ancient traditions. Watching a movie is a shared experience that can influence societal norms and collective consciousness since millions of people can view the same images simultaneously 2.
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Cultural Impact: Films can become part of cultural lexicons, shaping public discourse. For instance, the movie "Don't Look Up" has been referenced in political contexts and social movements, illustrating its integration into pop culture and its influence on public opinion 3.
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Empathy and Human Connection: Movies compel viewers to empathize with characters, even those from different worlds or realities. This capacity to evoke empathy can highlight human connectedness and promote understanding 4.
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Challenging Realities: Movies often portray unrealistic scenarios, which can sometimes affect people's perceptions of reality. For example, startup movies may glamorize the entrepreneurial journey, ignoring the prolonged and often mundane efforts required to build a successful business 5.
These examples illustrate that movies influence us by shaping our emotions, social behaviors, cultural norms, and perceptions of reality.
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