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PaperclipPerfector  7mo ago (text post)   1904 thread views

Small-Scale Question Sunday for October 1, 2023

Do you have a dumb question that you're kind of embarrassed to ask in the main thread? Is there something you're just not sure about?

This is your opportunity to ask questions. No question too simple or too silly.

Culture war topics are accepted, and proposals for a better intro post are appreciated.

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Why do people enjoy reaction videos? I can understand the appeal for content creators: they are cheap and quick to make and please the gods of YT algorithms.

But why would I watch someone watch a video? Is it a parasocial thing, enjoying things you liked "together" with your "friend"?

I've only watched a few of these but for me it was primarily a way to vicariously relive the excitement of seeing or playing something awesome for the first time. Probably a parasocial element too, like streaming.

I'm so superior to these people watching reaction videos, I can't even ...

vicariously relive the excitement of seeing or playing something awesome for the first time.

Aw, damn it, you're right. This is why the reaction shots are the most moving parts of the first Falcon 9 landing and Falcon Heavy debut recaps, isn't it?

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