We as humans need connection. So we often slip into the chameleon effect. We mimic others’ tone and mannerisms in conversation to empathize and connect. Otherwise, we might be perceived as cold. Nicole Guajardo says that in our digital world, using emojis has become a major way to mimic tone and express interest in conversation. And: Owners of social media platforms make a lot of money off of our constant bickering. And the algorithm is hard-wired to keep us clicking on the next thing that will piss us off. Caddie Alford says that some users are migrating to more comforting places like Reddit, where they can connect in niche communities and leave the drama behind.

Later in the show: What do Kelly Clarkson and Jay-Z have in common? Their songs have helped Sean Ruday teach his students about subordinate clauses and prepositional phrases. He says that using worksheets to teach grammar is perfect if you only want students to use grammar on worksheets. But using real-world examples of grammar in action helps students in their writing and communication with others. Plus: In 25 years of teaching composition, Diann Baecker had never experienced an 18-year-old saying that something “resonated” with them. Sure, they’re using the word correctly. But that’s not how they speak. Increasingly she finds that her students are using AI because they’re afraid to make mistakes in their writing.