Enshittification

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:23:02 +0000

**What Drives Enshittification in Modern America? A Deep Look at a Growing Cultural Trend** Why are so many people talking about enshittification today? In an era of shifting consumer expectations, digital overload, and rising cultural friction, enshittification—once a niche observer’s term—has moved into mainstream conversations. It describes the gradual erosion of quality in products, services, and experiences, often driven by cost-cutting, rushed production, or relentless platform optimization that prioritizes profit over value. Far more than a casual complaint, enshittification reflects a deeper public reckoning with authenticity in a world flooded with curated content and algorithm-driven engagement. As digital platforms grow increasingly competitive, the pressure to deliver quick results has reshaped industries—from food and retail to software and media. Algorithms favor speed and volume, encouraging rapid scaling at the expense of refinement. Consumers, despite seeking convenience, increasingly notice inconsistencies in quality, personalized trust, and genuine user experience. This tension creates fertile ground where enshittification thrives as both critique and signal of declining standards. At its core, enshittification arises from a mismatch: expectations shaped by high-end experiences clash with mass-produced, low-quality outputs. Digital environments—designed for instant gratification and endless scrolling—amplify these gaps, revealing frustration with brands and platforms that prioritize growth over integrity. Users across the U.S. are responding with heightened scrutiny, calling for accountability and authenticity in everything from fast food to subscription services.