Part 9/14:
Medical professionals emphasize that such actions are hazardous—borax, a known insecticide, is toxic to kidneys, and ingesting household chemicals can be fatal. Yet, social media platforms often serve as echo chambers where the most extreme or absurd ideas gain fleeting popularity. The watershed of viral stupidity, exemplified by Tide Pod consumption or the “drink bleach” meme, raises questions about societal health and the influence of internet culture.
This phenomenon mirrors earlier reckless behaviors, such as choking contests or raw animal organ consumption, but now accelerates due to the immediacy and reach of digital platforms. Experts suggest that a lack of realistic education about the dangers of such activities perpetuates these trends.