Nekton
noun (nek-ton)
free swimming aquatic animals essentially independent of wave and current action
So why "Nektonic"?
Nektonic creatures actively and persistently propel themselves through the water column, independently of any current acting on them. Therefore, one described as "nektonic" possesses the qualities of being free thinking - one who doesn't get swept up in the whims of the masses and thinks critically before forming an opinion on something.
Independent thought and freedom of speech are the backbone American society. Unfortunately, that same society increasingly places less value on the ability to stand out and instead calls for us to blend in. We face constant pressure to bifurcate ourselves into one group versus another politically, morally and racially.
At Nektonic we believe that in order to mend a divided society, we must become self-aware and conscious of the ways we are influenced in our everyday lives. Social media algorithms designed to drive us apart and news outlets that fear monger to drive engagement constantly cloud our minds, and encourage us to be reactionary instead of analytical. The goal of the game today is to be first to issue an opinion, not to be thorough in your reasoning.
It's up to us to reinvigorate the population with American ideals that make our country so unique. We cannot become a country where groupthink and fear dictate actions.