What you see isn’t always what you get (Academic)

In today's fast-paced and image-driven society, it is easy to fall into the trap of judging things solely based on what we see. Whether it be through social media, advertising, or even our own assumptions, we often make snap judgments about people, products, and situations without fully understanding the reality behind them. This phrase, "what you see isn't always what you get," holds true in a variety of contexts and serves as a reminder to look beyond the surface and examine things more deeply. One common example of this concept is in the realm of social media.

Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok allow users to carefully curate their online presence, showcasing only the best aspects of their lives. From perfectly posed selfies to exotic vacation photos, social media profiles can create a facade of perfection that may not accurately reflect a person's true experiences or emotions. Studies have shown that this curated version of reality can have detrimental effects on mental health, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem among those who compare themselves to others online. In this case, what we see on social media is often a carefully constructed image that does not always reflect the complexities of real life. Similarly, advertising and marketing tactics can also create illusions that mislead consumers.

Companies use clever packaging, catchy slogans, and celebrity endorsements to sell their products, often exaggerating their benefits and downplaying any potential drawbacks. For example, a weight-loss supplement may promise quick results without mentioning the potential side effects, or a fast-food chain may advertise a mouth-watering burger that looks nothing like the limp, unappetizing sandwich you receive when you actually order it. These tactics rely on the principle that what you see is what you will get, but in reality, the truth behind the product may be much less appealing. Another area where this phrase holds true is in personal relationships.

People often present themselves in a certain way to make a good impression, whether it be on a first date, a job interview, or a social gathering. However, it is important to remember that initial impressions can be deceiving, and getting to know someone on a deeper level is necessary to truly understand who they are. A person's exterior appearance or demeanor may not always reflect their true personality, values, or intentions, making it important to look beyond the surface and get to know someone on a more meaningful level. In conclusion, the phrase "what you see isn't always what you get" serves as a valuable reminder to approach things with a critical eye and not take appearances at face value.

Whether it be in the realm of social media, advertising, or personal relationships, it is important to look past the surface and dig deeper to uncover the reality behind the facade. By doing so, we can gain a better understanding of the world around us and make more informed decisions based on accurate information rather than superficial impressions.

References:

1.????? Chesley, Sara. "The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem. " The Huffington Post, 2 May 2018, www.huffpost.com/entry/the-impact-of-social-media-on-selfesteemb10136800

?2.Solomon, Michael R. , et al. Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being. Pearson, 2018.

3. Davis, Martha, et al. Interpersonal Communication in Friends and Lovers. Routledge, 2017.

Copyright ? Prof. Dr. Jorge R.