realityrathers

Realityrathers are individuals who seek authenticity in daily life, media, and culture, prioritizing real-world experience and verisimilitude over escapist fantasy. In discussions about media consumption, they advocate for portrayals that reflect ordinary life, tangible consequences, and practical skills, rather than idealized narratives or sensationalism. They apply these principles to choices about entertainment, news, education, and personal development.

The term realityrathers emerged in online discussions in the 2010s and 2020s, particularly on social media platforms and discussion forums. It is used to describe a stance rather than a formal movement and has no single leadership or manifesto. Proponents describe themselves as pursuing honesty and groundedness in a world saturated with curated images and escapist content.

Realityrathers favor nonfiction, documentary, and resources that teach practical skills; they support media literacy, critical thinking, and skeptical inquiry. In daily life, they emphasize transparency, accountability, and minimalism, and may advocate for sustainable living, reliable information, and community service. They may critique sensational headlines, over-optimistic fiction, and performative authenticity.

Critics argue that the term can be vague, with overbroad or exclusionary implications, and may verge into cynicism toward imagination or art. Some warn it risks gatekeeping or shaming those who enjoy fantasy or speculative fiction. Supporters counter that the stance encourages resilience, credible information, and meaningful engagement with reality.

Related concepts include realism, anti-escapism, stoicism, and media literacy.