By MELODY GARCIA SOULSCRIPT In a world overflowing with information, the most dangerous thing we can do is to stop asking questions. Yet often we fall victim to the seductive pull of headlines, memes, and soundbites that shape our worldview. What started as a harmless scroll through social media, or a quick news segment, can quickly spiral into something more sinister—a nation conditioned to think with its emotions, not its intellect. As the dust settles on the results of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, it’s clearer than ever that a lack of critical thinking and an over-reliance on biased media narratives have warped public opinion in ways we are still grappling with. But here’s the thing: we all play a role in this narrative. Yes, even you. Don’t just blame the media, the algorithms, or the politicians. If we don’t actively seek the truth, we risk being complicit in our own manipulation. The Illusion of Instant Knowledge We live in an age where information is available at the touch of a button. But ironically, this access has made us lazier—not smarter. “I read it online,” we say, as if the mere fact of something being posted on the internet makes it indisputable. It’s an easy trap to fall into. We’re bombarded by sources—many of them completely unverified—shoving their narratives down our throats, hoping that a catchy headline or an emotionally charged video will win the day. The truth? The more we’re fed, the less we actually know. We want to feel informed, and with our lives moving at breakneck speeds, it’s tempting to let our brains take shortcuts. After all, why dig deeper when the headline already tells you what you want to hear? It’s easier to click “share” than it is to question. But...... Read more on Full Issue!