Once you see it you can't unsee it: Neoliberal social media with Dr. L. Ayu Saraswati

To join the conversation, please visit https://www.axonleadership.com/friendsbetweenworlds/episode1In this conversation with Dr. L. Ayu Saraswati, professor at the University of Hawaii and award-winning author, we discuss neoliberalism, the impact of social media on emotional well-being, and the importance of emotional contracts in creating supportive structures. We explore the concepts of docile and defiant perception, and a vigilant eco-love that emphasizes community engagement and collective well-being. The discussion culminates in the idea of feminist enchantment, which encourages individuals to reconnect with their emotions and the world around them, fostering moments of delight and care.Takeaways-Neoliberalism emphasizes individualism, leading to disconnection.-Emotional contracts can provide a framework for mutual support.-Social media can alienate us from our true emotions.-Vigilant eco love encourages community engagement and transformation.-Feminist enchantment allows for moments of joy amidst struggle.-Understanding docile vs. defiant perception helps us challenge harmful ideologies.-The self is part of a larger ecological context.-Activism can take many forms, including local community engagement.Chapters00:00 Intro07:44 Neoliberalism, social media, and the selfie self20:11 Self-love vs. emotional contracts26:31 Docile vs. Defiant perception36:19 Vigilant Eco-love42:15 Feminist enchantment and community engagementDr. Saraswati’s website: https://drsaraswati.com/Keywords: neoliberalism, social media, emotional contracts, self-love, institutional support, docile perception, defiant perception, vigilant eco-love, feminist enchantmentThis conversation was recorded on August 6, 2025*These show notes were generated with help from an AI