In the throes of addiction, people can enter a time warp. The clock seemingly stops when cravings are met and dopamine floods the brain. 

But I’m not talking about drugs. I’m talking about social media.   

Heavy users can squander hours per day on TikTok binges. And the App’s developers see this as a feature, not a flaw.   

This week, we’re bringing you stories about how social media is rewiring our brains and reshaping real life.   

It’s the third episode of Not Natural, a series about our ability to control nature. These stories were produced for the Science Galley’s new exhibition — Not Natural. It’s open now and includes a listening station where you can hear work from our students.  

Featuring stories by Alexandra Harrop, Stephanie Monaco, Mia Spiteri, and Ella Power-Bridger.