In the era of digital technology and social media, the scarcity mindset—once an evolutionary advantage for survival—is now exploited in order to create a culture of constant craving and comparison. The mechanisms of social media platforms are designed to capture and retain attention and prey on human vulnerabilities, capitalizing on The Social and Technological Obsession with Acquisition. These platforms use algorithms that feed on users’ engagement, pushing content that taps into feelings of inadequacy, envy, and the perpetual pursuit of validation. This digital environment creates a feedback loop, and the more its users engage, the more they are exposed to the things they lack: a dynamic that further entrenches the scarcity mindset.

Easter argues that the impact of this cultural shift is profound, for it has transformed how individuals perceive success, happiness, and fulfillment, often tying these states to external validation and material acquisition. The constant exposure to curated lives and the achievements of others fosters a culture of comparison, wherein one’s worth and happiness are measured against the seemingly perfect lives displayed online. This cultural context is crucial for understanding the relevance of Scarcity Brain. Easter’s exploration into how to navigate and counteract the scarcity mindset is a timely response to the challenges posed by the digital age.