A Social Media Miracle: How a Mathematician’s Debut Sparked a Viral Phenomenon
In a story that’s nothing short of a digital enigma, news emerged of a Chinese mathematician, Wei Dongyi, entering the world of online content creation. In record time, a four-second video, devoid of flashy edits or special effects, introducing himself, catapulted him into the digital stratosphere. The result? A staggering 14 million likes, over 1.4 million comments, and a staggering 3 million shares. Any marketing agency would be salivating at such engagement rates and the opportunity to capitalize.
This seemingly simple introduction has had a profound impact on the digital world. The comments section offers some intriguing insights into this phenomenon.
The comments section of Wei Dongyi’s video has turned into a rather unusual space – a virtual wishing well. This begs the question: what explains this digital transformation?
Given the timing of the video’s release, just before China’s national college entrance exams, a flood of anxious students and their parents sought the mathematician’s digital blessing. Common requests included prayers for success in upcoming math exams, hoping to channel Wei’s intellectual prowess.
While understandable given Wei’s recognized mathematical brilliance, the trend quickly evolved. Wei was soon cast as a figure who could influence success, and people were sharing more specific hopes and dreams.
Some wished for favorable outcomes for their children.
This phenomenon has led to an interesting question: “Will there be a wave of those returning to the platform after the exam season to express their gratitude?”
Yet, the online community response has been anything but uniform. Some internet users are taking a more satirical approach, highlighting the absurdity of excessive fandom, and some are using this opportunity to make fun of any claims made by fans.
This rapid growth in the online discussion surrounding Wei Dongyi begs the question: Why has Wei Dongyi’s decision to open a social media account triggered such a divided reaction so quickly?
To analyze this situation, let’s investigate how the public first learned about this individual. In brief, public awareness primarily comes from fragmented sources: a mix of official reports and informal comments and speculation.
Wei’s public image started with reports on a university campus interview, where he was seen with a bottle of water and a bag of steamed buns, which, the public soon learned, was all he needed financially, according to reports.
With that notoriety, the public became interested in his achievements like his performance at IMO, and his many research papers to create the reputation he now enjoys.
Additional stories, however, have been circulating.
In one example, a team of six Ph.D.s was reportedly unsuccessful in solving a math problem. They sought Wei’s help, and based on the story, Wei solved the problem overnight.
Later, it was revealed that it was merely a rumor.
Furthermore, the story spread that Harvard University waived its standard requirements.
Wei Dongyi also disputed these claims.
Other stories include that Wei has an incredible mental state because he doesn’t eat meat, or some internet users claim that Wei Dongyi is just like a genius.
The public’s impression of Wei Dongyi is a narrative of what others have constructed.
Two major factors may explain why these stories, some unreliable, circulate so quickly. First, the public’s imagination of Wei Dongyi fits stereotypes about geniuses: a bit unkempt, a mathematician, and frugal. Secondly, people admire strength. When describing the genius, they may exaggerate.
The public’s lack of technical knowledge about more advanced mathematical ideas also makes it difficult to describe what Wei actually does.
This phenomenon demonstrates that one’s character becomes an icon, as if people seek divine blessings.
In this case, the discussion regarding Wei Dongyi’s teeth became the subject of public concern.
But it’s not completely out of bounds for Wei Dongyi to have released this account.
Without a verified account, any explanation of this person was managed by other people. Wei’s account can help the public get to know the person better.
Thus, a series of exaggerated images may be dissolved.
The public will have an easier time seeing more about him. Then, they’ll possibly care more about the individuals behind these myths and legends.
There’s no need to elevate him to a high degree, nor should we be taken in by any rumors.
Wei Dongyi is an individual.
As for the “Wei God” label, let’s leave it to the other guy.
Original article, Author: Tobias. If you wish to reprint this article, please indicate the source:https://aicnbc.com/2102.html
