Person of Mass Information Consumption as a Phenomenon of Post-Information Society

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to provide a philosophical and anthropological understanding of the phenomenon of the person of mass information consumption. The study analyzes the main problems faced by modern individuals in a total information environment: erosion of intellectual potential, weakening of critical thinking, and reduction of innovation capacity. The article aims to outline strategies for overcoming these challenges and assess their potential consequences for the future of humanity. The theoretical basis of the article lies in the methodology of philosophical anthropology and social philosophy, applying systematic principles, dialectical ascent from the abstract to the concrete, as well as hypothetical-deductive and phenomenological methods. Originality. The article introduces and substantiates a new philosophical concept – a person of mass information consumption, which, in the authors’ opinion, adequately reflects the essence of the modern stage of personality development. This concept makes it possible to outline the key features of the newest type of person and highlights the reasons for his or her transformations in the new socio-cultural conditions. Conclusions. The contemporary civilization is experiencing profound shifts in the nature of information and its subjects. With the expansion of information and communication technologies, millions are engaged in creating and consuming information, leading to the rise of virtual reality as a substitute for natural environments. This dynamic fosters a divide between an intellectual elite and a mass of superficial content consumers, resulting in a decline in critical thinking and creative potential. To counter these risks, it is crucial to (1) conduct in-depth research into digital media addiction and develop programs to foster critical thinking, (2) protect society from harmful content while promoting access to quality, life-affirming information, and (3) study the effects of virtualization on social structures and cultural identity to anticipate and prevent negative transformations of human consciousness.