This is written in response to Ainent's post a month or so ago.
gemini://ainent.xyz/gemlog/2022-03-04-non-player-characters.gmi
The basic point is good: we are manipulated in all sorts of ways, and it's done by those who have power to a) improve their grasp on power, and b) gain more.
I take issue with the label NPC for a human being, however, because it has a false implication: an NPC is programmed and cannot act independently, but, as Ainent agrees and suggests, a human NPC can switch off the programming. I echo Ainent's call to action:
regain your independent thought faculties simply by shutting off the mainstream media. Instead, focus on what makes you happy: family, friends, hobbies, etc.
I'd add one more thing: instead of consuming media that is controlled by the people with power, listen to what's being said by proven, reliable, consistent people who do not have power, especially those who oppose what supports established power: war, consolidation, homogenization.
But most critically: live a free human life, with your family and friends, and do the things that make you happy and that are important to you. That's liberty being lived.