The origins of the fidget spinner
The fidget spinner is a small handheld toy that consists of a bearing in the center of a multi-lobed flat structure made out of plastic or metal. While it became popular in 2017, it actually has its origins in the early 1990s. A woman by the name of Catherine Hettinger is credited with inventing the device to help children with ADHD focus and alleviate stress.
The rise of the fidget spinner
While Hettinger initially tried to sell her invention, she was unsuccessful due to the high prices of manufacturing. Eventually, patent fees caused Hettinger to let the patent on the fidget spinner expire, which allowed other companies to mass produce and sell them. The trend caught the attention of YouTubers and social media users, and soon enough, the fidget spinner became a worldwide sensation.
Controversy surrounding the fidget spinner
Despite its popularity, the fidget spinner also received its fair share of criticism and controversy. Some schools even banned the use of the device, claiming it was a distraction to students. Others argued that it could actually hinder focus rather than improve it. Regardless of the debate surrounding it, the fidget spinner still remains a popular toy to this day.
The decline of the fidget spinner
Although it was all the rage for a time, the fidget spinner’s popularity eventually declined. Many view it as a fad that eventually ran its course, while others see it as an example of how quickly trends can catch on and disappear just as quickly. Despite its decline, the fidget spinner still remains a beloved toy for many and its impact on popular culture cannot be denied.
The legacy of the fidget spinner
The fidget spinner may have been a passing trend, but its legacy lives on. It serves as a reminder of how quickly trends can arise and fade away, and how social media and the internet can play a huge role in spreading those trends. It also showed the power of a simple invention to capture the attention of millions around the world. Whether you view it as a harmless toy or a useless fad, the fidget spinner will always hold a place in pop culture history.
