Introduction
The NPC conspiracy theory claims that some people in society function like “Non-Playable Characters” from video games, lacking independent thought and simply repeating mainstream opinions. This meme-turned-theory has been both ridiculed and embraced as social commentary.
Origins
The NPC idea first appeared on 4chan in 2016 as a meme. It spread rapidly to Reddit and Twitter, often used to mock those seen as lacking critical thinking skills.
Key Examples
- NPC Wojak memes: Popular imageboards used the gray “NPC” face to label others.
- Political commentary: Detractors claim their opponents “act like NPCs.”
- COVID-19 pandemic: The meme was used to criticize unquestioning obedience to authorities.
Critical Analysis
Critics argue the NPC theory is a form of dehumanization, while supporters see it as a critique of conformity. Its viral spread highlights digital tribalism and internet-driven groupthink.
Influential Literature: Pro & Contra
- Douglas Rushkoff – “Team Human” – W.W. Norton, 2019. Rushkoff, Team Human. Norton, 2019.
- Cass R. Sunstein – “Conformity: The Power of Social Influences” – NYU Press, 2019. Sunstein, Conformity. NYU Press, 2019.
- Jaron Lanier – “Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now” – Henry Holt and Co., 2018. Lanier, Ten Arguments. Henry Holt, 2018.
- Jonathan Haidt – “The Righteous Mind” – Vintage, 2013. Haidt, The Righteous Mind. Vintage, 2013.
- Ryan Holiday – “Conspiracy” – Portfolio, 2018. Holiday, Conspiracy. Portfolio, 2018.
- Eli Pariser – “The Filter Bubble” – Penguin Books, 2012. Pariser, The Filter Bubble. Penguin, 2012.
- Timothy Snyder – “On Tyranny” – Tim Duggan Books, 2017. Snyder, On Tyranny. Duggan, 2017.
- Jean Baudrillard – “Simulacra and Simulation” – University of Michigan Press, 1994. Baudrillard, Simulacra and Simulation. UMP, 1994.
- Justin Gest – “The New Minority” – Oxford University Press, 2016. Gest, The New Minority. OUP, 2016.