Digital Society

What Bo Burnham's Inside says about technology and the internet


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Host Travis and guest Tom discuss Bo Burnham's musical special 'Inside' (2021) and explore its themes related to technology, society, and the pandemic.

They delve into the dominance of online content, the impact of technology on relationships, the generational divide, the pressure to conform to online norms, and the challenges of accountability in the digital age. They also examine the effects of the pandemic on individuals and society as a whole.

The conversation highlights the thought-provoking commentary and the use of humour to address serious topics in Burnham's work. Topics uncovered in the work include the social impact of the digital world, the unregulated nature of the internet, the addictive nature of technology, and the challenges of content creation. The conversation also reflects on the effects of the pandemic and the longing for a return to normalcy. Overall, 'Inside' serves as a case study for digital creatives and marketers, highlighting the importance of creativity and authenticity in communication.


Time markers

00:00 Introduction and Context of Bo Burnham's Inside

04:31 Content: The Dominance of Online Content

06:31 Comedy: Social Mobility and Privilege

11:49 FaceTime with My Mum Tonight: Technology and Generational Divide

15:22 How the World Works: Reflection on Society and Education

18:46 White Woman's Instagram: Perfection and Online Persona

21:51 30: Expectations and Achievement

23:40 Bezos I and Bezos II: Power and Accountability

26:10 Sexting: Technology and Relationships

29:00 Don't Want to Know: Disconnectedness and Care

32:00 Problematic: Accountability in the Digital Age

35:00 All Time Low and The All Time Low: Reflection on the Pandemic

40:08 Reflection on the Impact of the Digital World

41:10 Welcome to the Internet

42:49 Unregulated Nature of the Internet

44:21 The Internet as an Addiction

46:57 That Funny Feeling

48:18 The Manic Showmaster Persona

49:06 The Traps of Content Creation

50:53 Goodbye

52:10 Any Day Now

52:21 Reflection on the Pandemic

54:38 Final Thoughts

...more
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Digital SocietyBy Travis Holland