The Evolution of ASMR: A Historical Overview

'a blue silhouette with text'
title: 'ASMR - Wikipedia' and caption: 'a blue silhouette with text'

Introduction to ASMR

Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) refers to a tingling sensation that typically begins on the scalp and spreads to the neck and spine, producing feelings of relaxation and euphoria. Described as akin to a mild electrical current, ASMR is usually triggered by auditory stimuli like whispering, tapping, and crinkling sounds, along with visual stimuli associated with personal attention or intricate activities. The sensation has gained popularity as both a phenomenon and a form of online content, particularly through platforms like YouTube.

Early Recognition and Naming

'a poster of a man with headphones'
caption: 'a poster of a man with headphones'

The modern history of ASMR began in 2007, when a user named 'okaywhatever' initiated a discussion on the health forum SteadyHealth titled 'Weird Sensation Feels Good.' This thread described a tingling sensation experienced since childhood, which resonated with many others, revealing a shared phenomenon amongst participants who reported similar feelings in response to various stimuli like whispering and gentle movements[4][9].

The term 'ASMR' itself was coined in 2010 by Jennifer Allen, a participant in these discussions who sought to formalize the term to lend it legitimacy. Allen defined ASMR to signify the autonomously triggered sensory reaction distinct from sexual arousal, emphasizing its role in relaxation and comfort[5][6][9][11]. She explained that 'autonomous' reflects the individual nature of the trigger, while 'meridian' denotes a peak experience without connotations of climax associated with orgasm[6][10][11].

Growth of the Online Community

ASMRtists, as they are called, type on keyboards, tap on brushes and whisper gently to induce
title: 'ASMRtists, as they are called, type on keyboards, tap on brushes and whisper gently to induce 'the tingles.' But is there any whisper of scientific truth to the trend?' and caption: 'a close-up of hands typing on a typewriter'

As awareness of ASMR grew, online platforms like YouTube became central hubs for both content creators (known as ASMRtists) and audiences seeking these soothing experiences. In 2009, the first ASMR-specific YouTube channel, WhisperingLife, emerged, initiating a wave of whisper videos that would lay the groundwork for the burgeoning ASMR community. By 2010, a Facebook group dedicated to ASMR, called ASMR Research & Support, was created, facilitating further discussion and community-building among those experiencing ASMR[1][3][7].

These early ASMR videos gradually attracted considerable attention, often featuring soft-spoken narration, tapping sounds, and simulated personal attention[1][6]. The community began to flourish, with ASMRtists like Maria GentleWhispering gaining large followings, eventually leading to the proliferation of diverse styles and formats[10][11].

Scientific Inquiry and Research Findings

As ASMR's popularity grew, researchers started examining its effects. The first significant peer-reviewed research published in 2015 surveyed individuals experiencing ASMR, revealing that many use it to alleviate insomnia and stress, with a high percentage reporting improved emotional well-being after watching ASMR content[8][9]. More recent studies employed fMRI technology to investigate brain activity during ASMR experiences, finding that areas associated with reward and social bonding were activated more strongly in those who experience ASMR compared to those who do not. This suggests a potential link between ASMR and social interactions, akin to the calming effects of touch and personal attention[8][10].

Societal Perception and Media Representation

youtube at 15 ASMR
title: 'youtube at 15 ASMR' and caption: 'a close up of a microphone and lips'

While many ASMR practitioners view the phenomenon as a benign and therapeutic experience, it has not been immune to misconceptions, often being mischaracterized as sexual or fetishistic[4][5][10][11]. This misunderstanding has led to defensive attitudes within the community, as many users felt stigmatized or ridiculed for their experiences[6][9]. Despite this, media representation has evolved, with ASMR receiving mainstream attention through advertising and appearances in popular films, such as the 2017 movie Battle of the Sexes, which sought to replicate the soothing effects of ASMR in cinematic form[10][11].

The Future of ASMR

ASMR continues to evolve as a genre, now encompassing a vast array of content including relaxation videos, guided meditations, and even role-play scenarios. With millions of videos uploaded and a growing audience, ASMR has cemented its place in contemporary digital culture[10]. As scientific research progresses, there is potential for ASMR to be recognized for its therapeutic applications, especially in treating anxiety and insomnia.

In conclusion, the history of ASMR reflects a fascinating intersection of digital media, community building, and psychological research. From a niche online discussion to a burgeoning global phenomenon, ASMR illustrates how shared experiences in the digital age can lead to deeper investigations into human sensations and emotional well-being.

What are the limitations of the Google Search Console API?

 title: 'Usage Limits  |  Search Console API  |  Google for Developers'

The Google Search Console API has several important limitations. First, the API enforces quotas on usage, limiting the number of queries per second (QPS), queries per minute (QPM), and queries per day (QPD) at various levels including user, site, and project[1]. Specifically, users can only retrieve a maximum of 50,000 pairs of pages and keywords per property daily, which can hinder data collection for larger sites[5].

Additionally, the API may provide aggregated data, which can lead to sampling and a lack of complete keyword visibility, particularly for larger sites where a significant portion of data may be missed[3][5].

What's a canelé?

 title: 'Canelé - Wikipedia'

A canelé is a small French pastry characterized by its rich flavor of rum and vanilla, featuring a soft, custardy interior and a dark, caramelized crust. Typically shaped like a small, striated cylinder, canelés are traditionally associated with the Bordeaux region of France, where they are believed to have originated from the Couvent des Annonciades either in the 15th or 18th century[1][4].

The pastry is made using a batter that consists of milk, eggs, flour, sugar, and rum, and it is often quite challenging to prepare due to the specific techniques required[2][5]. To achieve the signature texture, canelés are baked using molds that are traditionally made of cooper and coated with beeswax, which helps create their glossy finish and prevents sticking[5][6].

Canelés are particularly known for their juxtaposition of a crunchy exterior and a pudding-like, moist center, making them a delightful treat often enjoyed for breakfast, as snacks, or as desserts[1][5]. Their popularity has led to various adaptations and offerings in pâtisseries both in France and abroad[1].

Evolving Roles in Generative AI: From Prompt Engineering to Agent Orchestration

Introduction

The rapid rise of generative AI has led to a transformation in how work is structured and executed across industries. New technologies such as ChatGPT, large language models, and digital agents are not only generating creative content but are also revolutionizing enterprise workflow management through agent orchestration. In this era, organizations are witnessing the emergence of specialized roles that range from prompt engineering to sophisticated AI agent orchestration, reflecting a shift toward integrated, human-like reasoning and dynamic coordination of tasks[1][10].

Emerging Job Categories and Skill Sets

The evolving landscape of AI has given rise to an array of specialized roles. For instance, prompt engineers are in high demand for crafting and refining input instructions for generative models such as ChatGPT, where strong communication skills and attention to detail are crucial[2][3]. Other roles extend to AI trainers, data scientists, AI designers, developers, machine learning engineers, and even natural language processing (NLP) engineers whose competencies range from developing deep neural networks to leveraging frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch[2][9].

Beyond these, new job categories are emerging that focus on design applications (such as generative design specialist), content review (AI content reviewers), compliance (AI compliance officers), and even roles dedicated to managing ethical concerns and data privacy in AI systems[5][10]. These roles not only require technical expertise but also an understanding of creative processes, regulatory frameworks, and human-machine interaction.

Tooling, Methodologies, and Agent Orchestration

Prompt engineering comic.
Image from: techtarget.com

Agent orchestration represents the next frontier in AI integration, embedding intelligence at the system level. This concept involves the coordinated management of multiple AI agents, each specialized in distinct tasks, to work together in executing complex workflows[1]. For example, vertical orchestration involves agents working within a specific application environment, while horizontal orchestration allows for dynamic coordination across different platforms in real time[1].

Technical patterns elaborated by major industry players include sequential orchestration, where agents process tasks in a predetermined pipeline, and concurrent orchestration, which enables multiple agents to operate simultaneously on the same task for diverse perspectives[7]. Additional patterns such as group chat orchestration and handoff mechanisms ensure that AI agents can debate, collaborate, and escalate tasks dynamically, embodying a form of 'agentic AI' that mimics human teamwork abilities[7][6].

Moreover, advancements in prompt engineering, as detailed in specialized guides, enable developers to design robust interfaces for these agents and enhance their interactions with other tools and external knowledge sources[8].

Career Pathways, Hiring, and Training Recommendations

Table showing sample job titles by education requirement and AI keyword growth, including roles like Customer Service Representative and Program Manager. A line graph illustrates AI job posting trends by degree level.
Image from: jff.org

Given the complexity and rapid evolution of generative AI systems, both hiring and training strategies need to evolve accordingly. Organizations are advised to look for candidates who not only possess technical proficiency in computer science, data analysis, and machine learning but also have strong communication and problem-solving skills required for prompt engineering roles[2]. Academic degree programs, specialized certifications, and hands-on experience with generative AI tools are critical for building a workforce capable of managing AI orchestration and integration across diverse platforms[4].

Hiring managers are encouraged to design roles that integrate human oversight with digital capabilities, thereby embracing a hybrid workforce model. This approach involves incorporating digital agents as active teammates rather than mere tooling supplements, ensuring that human creativity and strategic oversight complement AI automation[1][10].

On the training front, organizations should provide targeted training in areas such as agent prompt design, ethical AI considerations, and the use of orchestration frameworks. Continuous learning through courses, workshops, and industry conferences is vital to keep pace with the innovations in generative AI and multi-agent systems[2][9].

Conclusion

Practical AI course
Image from: rallyrecruitmentmarketing.com

The generative AI era is marked by a convergence of creative content generation and intelligent automation. From prompt engineering, which optimizes the way AI models like ChatGPT interpret user inputs, to complex agent orchestration that drives system-level intelligence and workflow management, evolving job categories are reshaping the workforce. Organizations that invest in targeted hiring, robust training programs, and the development of interoperable AI systems will be best positioned to compete in a space where digital and human capabilities are increasingly intertwined. This integrated approach not only boosts operational efficiency but also cultivates an innovation-driven culture that is essential for future success[1][7].

The Analog Renaissance in a Digital Age

Introduction

Why people are embracing analog hobbies in a digital world — Analog From Here
Image from: rediscoveranalog.com

The modern world is increasingly defined by digital connectivity, yet a noticeable resurgence in analog hobbies is redefining how people choose to experience leisure and creativity. As individuals seek tangible, deliberate, and sensory-rich activities in a crowded digital landscape, hobbies such as knitting, film photography, and board games are gaining renewed popularity[1][2]. This report explores the cultural drivers, key activities, practical benefits, and community growth behind this analog revival.

Cultural and Social Drivers

Analog, Gen Z, hobbies
Image from: rollingout.com

One of the primary reasons behind this shift is digital fatigue. Constant screen exposure has led to a yearning for slower-paced, more tactile experiences. Many people have described analog hobbies as a way to step away from endless scrolling and engage in activities that require physical interaction and focus. As articulated in several texts, the simple act of playing a record, setting up a camera shot, or handwriting thoughts is deeply connected to mindfulness and intentional living[1]. Moreover, digital overload has prompted a cultural shift where individuals, including members of Generation Z, deliberately invest in analog practices to counterbalance the constant digital stimulation and stored data, thus reconnecting with a more authentic and self-affirming experience[2].

Analog Hobbies: Knitting, Film Photography, and Board Games

Film photography remains at the forefront of analog revival, with enthusiasts celebrating the unexpected outcomes and timeless aesthetics of each frame. Modern investments by major manufacturers and the introduction of new emulsions have reinforced the continuity of this traditional craft, while independent initiatives also contribute to an expanding market of alternative film products[7]. Similarly, the act of knitting has evolved from a routine task to a mindful pursuit that offers a reprieve from constant connectivity. Many find that creating something tangible with yarn not only nurtures creativity but also provides a welcome distraction from digital distractions, echoing benefits mentioned by techies and hobby enthusiasts alike[12].

Board games have experienced a significant renaissance. Once seen purely as childhood pastimes, board games now serve as a complex and engaging medium for both intimate gatherings and competitive tournaments. The industry boasts impressive statistics, with market analyses emphasizing strong revenue growth and robust community engagement. Detailed reports describe board games as offering rich strategic depth, educational value, and opportunities for social interaction that digital formats cannot match[4][10].

Benefits and Wellness Advantages

Image from: organicspamagazine.com

Analog hobbies offer numerous benefits, especially in a wellness context. Engaging in activities that are inherently slow-paced helps individuals experience a meditative state that counteracts the rapidity and distractions fostered by digital devices. For example, film photography requires careful planning and the acceptance of imperfections such as grain and light leaks, a process which instills a sense of accomplishment and mindfulness[1]. Knitting and similar tactile activities contribute to stress relief by demanding focused attention, thereby reducing the likelihood of burnout and digital fatigue[12].

The analog wellness trend extends beyond individual satisfaction. In settings such as phone-free spaces and curated social clubs, people are encouraged to disconnect from digital stimuli and reconnect with their physical environment. Leaders in the wellness industry highlight this movement as crucial in fostering a sense of presence and genuine human connection, elements often missing in purely digital interactions[11].

Community Growth and Market Trends

Community formation is a vital aspect of the analog renaissance. Enthusiasts of film photography, knitting, and board games create spaces such as meetups, workshops, and hobby shows that facilitate interpersonal connections beyond the virtual realm. In-person board game cafes and clubs are flourishing, offering dedicated spaces for fans to share experiences and strategies. According to market statistics, the board game sector is experiencing robust growth, evidenced by rising revenues, expanding game collections, and an ever-growing number of community events and conventions that cement shared interests and collective learning[4][5].

Similarly, the analog revival in film and craft communities is supported by increasing investments from major companies and renewed interest among younger demographics. These developments not only fuel nostalgia but also address modern demands for authenticity and intergenerational exchange. Major brands and independent designers alike are seizing on the analog momentum, using both traditional methods and selective digital support to broaden the reach of tactile hobbies[7].

Conclusion

The comeback of analog hobbies in the age of smartphones represents a thoughtful response to the relentless pace of digital life. With activities such as knitting, film photography, and board games, people are reclaiming space for tangible creativity, mindfulness, and authentic human connection. This revival is not merely a nostalgic trend but a holistic movement that integrates wellness, artistic expression, and community building. As cultural attitudes shift towards slower, more deliberate ways of living, the analog renaissance is poised to continue its steady growth, promising lasting benefits for individuals and communities alike[1][11].

What are the best smart thermostats in 2024?

Quick facts: Quantum computing for AR

Quantum computing uses qubits that can exist in multiple states simultaneously.

Error correction is essential for maintaining qubit stability in quantum computing.

Quantum computing has the potential to transform industries like cryptography and drug discovery.

As of 2024, noise and decoherence remain significant challenges for quantum computation.

Developing quantum algorithms could reshape cybersecurity with new encryption methods.

journalists reflecting on misinformation

Digital journalists must navigate this landscape with vigilance, ethics, and a commitment to truth.
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Journalists need to show their audiences why their institution should be worthy of trust.
Joy Mayer[3]
The most vigorous defense against online misinformation remains the ethics of journalism.
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Engaging directly with readers can also enhance credibility.
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An active fact-checking community is essential on social media.
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Fast facts: AI-generated image detection

AI-generated image detection accuracy rates exceed 95%.

Leading tools for detection include Faster-Than-Lies and AI or Not.

Common artifacts in AI-generated images include inconsistent shadow sources and incorrect reflections.

Decopy's AI image detector analyzes patterns and metadata.

Robustness to adversarial perturbations is crucial for effective detection.

5 fast facts on lab grown leather

Lab-grown leather can be produced in about two weeks.

It uses 80% less water compared to traditional leather production.

Lab-grown leather generates 90% fewer emissions than conventional leather.

The leather industry contributes 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Consumer demand for lab-grown leather is rapidly increasing.