In the past two decades, the digital landscape has undergone an extraordinary transformation, radically reshaping the way individuals interact with the world and with each other. From the gradual emergence of the Internet in the late 20th century to the ubiquitous presence of smartphones and social media platforms today, digital technologies have become deeply integrated into the fabric of daily life. This integration, while offering unprecedented connectivity and access to information, has not come without its costs.

The purpose of this article is to delve into the rapidly evolving phenomenon of digital consumption, examining how the increasing amount of time people spend online has progressed over time. With a focus on recent trends and statistics, this paper will explore the multifaceted implications of this digital engagement, highlighting the potential negative consequences on individual well-being and societal dynamics. The pervasiveness of fake news, disinformation, misinformation, and propaganda in the digital realm will be scrutinized, underscoring the urgency of understanding these elements in the context of excessive digital use.

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