The Multidimensional Nature of Addiction: Food Technology, Netizen Culture, and Educational Perspectives
Synopsis
This book examines the phenomenon of addiction, which manifests itself in various dimensions in contemporary society, from a multi-dimensional perspective, particularly focusing on food addiction and social media addiction. Food addiction is considered a behavioral disorder characterized by excessive consumption that activates the brain's reward system; it is emphasized that ultra-processed foods with high sugar, fat, and salt content can trigger this process through their sensory properties. However, food addiction is not solely a biologically based phenomenon, but a complex structure shaped by environmental factors such as food technologies, marketing strategies, accessibility, and socioeconomic factors. This situation is directly related to the increase in obesity and chronic diseases. The book also addresses social media addiction through the lens of netizen identity emerging within the context of networked society; it draws attention to the intensification of social media use due to the increasing interaction and constant connection of individuals in digital environments. While increased digital participation makes individuals more active and productive, it also brings with it the risks of addiction such as overuse and loss of control. Food and digital addiction forms are considered to be processes arising from the interaction of technological and structural factors, beyond a lack of individual willpower; in this context, proposed solutions go beyond individual interventions. The importance of multifaceted strategies in educational settings, such as environmental regulations, media literacy, product reformulation, labeling policies, and regulatory practices, is emphasized. Consequently, the book addresses the phenomenon of addiction within an interdisciplinary framework, evaluating the risks arising from digitalization and modern food systems through a holistic approach, and aims to contribute to the development of policies and practices in this field.
