The term Zuckerberging refers to the act of using others to influence their decisions, appropriating or copying foreign concepts and ideas in order to achieve significant profits. It involves manipulation and strategic appropriation to dominate markets or social contexts, often at the expense of others.
Origin of the term
The term Zuckerberging or zuckerberged originates from a dialogue in the animated series Rick and Morty, specifically in episode nine of the first season. In this episode, Summer starts working at an antique store called Needful Things, run by none other than the devil, who offers magical items with dark costs attached. In an unexpected twist, the store transforms into an online business and, at the peak of its success, is acquired by a giant like Google. However, the devil, true to his manipulative nature, pockets all the profits, betraying Summer.
It is then that Summer, outraged, confronts him, saying, “You’re Zuckerberging me.” The devil responds cynically, “I was Zuckerberging people before Zuckerberg’s balls dropped” Inspired by the founder of Facebook, this term refers to practices of exploitation, manipulation, and the appropriation of others’ ideas or resources for personal gain. It represents an opportunistic and ethically questionable behavior in contexts of power and business, capturing the essence of corporate greed and the darker side of innovation.
