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Cover of Wasting Time on the Internet

Wasting Time on the Internet

247 pages

A clear, philosophical manifesto that reframes our digital habits from mindless scrolling to productive creativity.

What it feels like

Reading this book feels like experiencing a sudden, validating shift in perspective. Instead of drowning in the cultural guilt of excessive screen time, the reader is invited into a contemplative, intellectual space where everyday digital habits are reframed as acts of modern creativity. The prose is notably clear and readable, guiding you steadily through theoretical and philosophical concepts without ever getting bogged down in dense academic jargon. It reads like a persuasive, optimistic manifesto, replacing the anxiety of wasted time with a profound appreciation for the social aspects of the internet. This is a perfect read for anyone who spends hours online and wants to understand the hidden productivity and cultural value of their digital wandering.

Mood
  • contemplative
  • validating
  • thought-provoking
Tone
  • persuasive
  • intellectual
  • optimistic
  • analytical
Pace
steady
Themes
digital culture · the nature of productivity · online creativity · philosophical reframing
The writing
Clear and highly readable, translating theoretical and philosophical concepts into accessible arguments.
The arc
Moves from the cultural guilt of screen time to a validated, optimistic appreciation of digital creativity.
Who it's for
Anyone interested in media theory, digital culture, and finding philosophical justification for their time spent online.

About the book

Using clear, readable prose, conceptual artist and poet Kenneth Goldsmith's manifesto shows how our time on the internet is not really wasted but is quite productive and creative as he puts the experience in its proper theoretical and philosophical context.

Description from Open Library.

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