“Manifestation is intention-setting through focusing your thoughts on the desired outcome until it happens. It’s part of psychological thought that became popularised by books like The Secret, before taking over popular culture in 2020. Since then, there’s been a growing fascination around how algorithms, the internet, and even AI can be tools for manifestation. Over the summer, Gabi Abrão Tweeted: “Everything I have in my life, I once reblogged on Tumblr. The internet is a rapid manifestation tool. The images and essences you worship here lay on an altar that determines your future.””

In her article, The rise of the ‘manifinsta’: how social media became a manifestation tool, writer Laura Pitcher explores the phenomenon of "manifinstas"—social media accounts that young people use primarily to manifest jobs, relationships, and an overall improved life. This trend aligns with the growing popularity of astrology in culture, reflected in music of Ariana Grande and film’s like Tarot (2024). This week, we delve into the roots of the desire for predetermined outcomes and discuss whether social media should function as a tool for self-optimisation.

This episode is hosted by Halima Jibril, Elliot Hoste, and Laura Pitcher, with research by Solomon Pace McCarrick. It was edited by Oliver Gale. The executive producer is Lauren Ford.

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