It’s misguided to think this only happens with liberals. Both sides believe the other is “brainwashed,” whether by mainstream media or by influencers and podcasters, and both have endless reasons why their side is different. Most people would agree that being brainwashed is bad. The more useful distinction is between people who use platforms like X, TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram, and those who don’t. No one is immune to the algorithms. To use them is to be brainwashed. Thinking one’s above being brainwashed is a sign one probably already is. Choose not to play.