Algorithm-driven platforms end the era of shared internet culture

The era of shared internet culture and spontaneous viral moments has largely ended due to algorithm-driven platforms. Platforms like TikTok personalize content feeds, fragmenting shared experiences and making universal viral events rare. Content creation is now often a professional pursuit focused on gaming algorithms for views and income. Early viral phenomena like the "Chewbacca Mom" video were organic, but today's internet prioritizes extreme content and professional creators, shifting virality from a shared pastime to a business proposition.