Capturing memories or losing moments? Paris New Year's celebration sparks debate

People were busy recording the countdown in Paris rather than enjoy the moment. (Image: @dailyXmatter/X)

Paris' extravagant New Year's celebrations, akin to a scene from a Black Mirror episode, have ignited a fiery debate on social media. As the city dazzled with fireworks and the iconic light show from the Arc de Triomphe during the 2024 countdown, thousands watched in awe.

However, amidst the spectacle, a contentious detail emerged, prompting a wave of social media commentary on the act of recording the event rather than living in the moment.

Billionaire industrialist Anand Mahindra too criticised the clip saying, "We are trapped. In a cage of screens…"

We are trapped.
In a cage of screens… https://t.co/ebfIXZtfu8

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) January 3, 2024

“Right out of a black mirror episode,” a third user chimed in.

Amidst the critique, defenders emerged, questioning whether capturing a moment on video truly detracts from experiencing it. “Who was the person who decided recording a moment wasn't the same as enjoying a moment? I have memories going back since childhood of my mom with a polaroid camera or video camera recording a memory. It didn't steal the joy of the moment,” one user wrote.

You need to have a better eye brother  Sure these two are living the moment  pic.twitter.com/7GMq8zoP81

— Musk Melon (@dailyXmatter) January 1, 2024

Another user pointed out the irony. “Most ironically not even the person posting this.”