happy valentine's day, technosexuality, zynfluencers, i wanna hold your hand

Hello.

Happy Valentine’s Day. I wrote a v-day inspired newsletter several days ago if you’re in the mood for something festive.

Do you have plans today? Let’s do some valentine’s day poll questions then we’ll get into today’s news.

If you’re single and feeling salty, you’re not alone (trust me). My inbox is open if you wanting to commiserate.

News:

Are We All Technosexuals Now?

The exploration of artificial companionship through "Candy.ai" in this narrative delves into the complexities of human desire intertwined with technology, showcasing how digital interactions, while offering new realms of fantasy, cannot supplant the nuanced depth of real human connection, ultimately underscoring the timeless quest for genuine intimacy amidst an ever-evolving digital landscape.

The New York Times

Dating Is Dead. Are Friends With Benefits The Way Forward?

In an era where traditional dating seems to be waning, the friends with benefits arrangement emerges as a compelling alternative, challenging conventional relationship norms by offering a blend of sexual fulfillment and emotional freedom without the complexities and expectations of monogamy. This dynamic, while not without its pitfalls, underscores the evolving landscape of personal connections where communication, boundaries, and self-awareness become paramount in navigating the delicate balance between intimacy and independence.

Vogue 

Meet The Zynfluencers. How Nicotine Pouches Ignited A Culture War

The rise of Zyn nicotine pouches and their burgeoning "Zynfluencer" culture reflect a modern twist on an age-old human fascination with nicotine, now repackaged into a socially acceptable, discreet form that sidesteps the stigma associated with traditional tobacco products. This phenomenon not only highlights the enduring allure of nicotine's effects but also ignites a cultural debate over the balance between personal freedom and public health, especially as these products gain traction among younger demographics, challenging regulatory frameworks and societal norms alike.

The Guardian

How To Get Closer To Your Team Without Overstepping The Line

To strengthen team relationships while maintaining professionalism, leaders should cultivate empathy and inclusivity, fostering a culture where every member feels valued and heard. Balancing genuine engagement with respect for personal boundaries is key to nurturing a supportive and collaborative workplace environment.

Tiny Love Stories: The Unspoken Question Between Us

A collection of brief, poignant narratives about love and relationships. These stories, written by various authors, explore themes such as the complexities of maintaining a connection, the silent yet powerful dynamics between individuals, and the unspoken yet deeply felt questions that often linger in relationships. Each story offers a unique perspective on love, capturing its multifaceted nature in just a few words.

Forbes 

The Remarkable Power Of Holding Hands With Someone You Love 

Holding hands is deeply ingrained in human behavior across cultures, providing not just emotional comfort but also tangible physiological benefits like reduced pain and lower blood pressure. This simple gesture activates our innate need for connection, suggesting that our brains are wired to interpret the presence and touch of others as a fundamental aspect of our baseline state, making us feel less alone and more equipped to handle life's challenges.

Why Do I Get The Ick When Men Open Up To Me?

This narrative insightfully captures the internal conflict between the desire for light-hearted, superficial interactions and the deeper, more meaningful connections that can unexpectedly arise in relationships. It illustrates the protagonist's initial frustration with a man's openness about his personal struggles, reflecting societal expectations of casual encounters, and her eventual realization that genuine emotional support and authentic communication are valuable, even in budding relationships. This shift in perspective challenges the superficial norms of socializing, revealing the importance and complexity of emotional labor in human connections.

The Washington Post 

Why Can’t People Be Normal In Public Anymore?

The rise in public incidents of hostility and aggression might be reflective of broader societal shifts, where individuals increasingly resist traditional norms of behavior, influenced by a mix of heightened individualism, the quest for viral content, and a breakdown in the social contract observed at higher societal levels. This complex interplay suggests a deeper need to reevaluate communal spaces and the expectations we hold for one another in them, potentially calling for a balance between personal expression and collective harmony.

Vice

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