I’ve always said this. I feel uncomfortable with the concept of social media; especially where it comes to where society is headed, and where it comes to our kids.
But it is here and it seems like it is here to stay. At least for the foreseeable future.
My work involves bringing the educated sector of our society into the mix. Pushing them online so that there’s more reason and civility represented within this virtual milieu.
Social media, as I’ve been saying for years in my speaking roles and online, is a double edged sword.
Great things happen when we use it wisely.
But the edge that’s causing us division and hatred is unfortunately much, much sharper.
Great things happen when we use social media wisely. But the edge (of the double-edged sword) that’s causing us division and hatred is unfortunately much, much sharper. Click To Tweet
I’d love to entertain others’ thoughts.
And I did!
I shared these thoughts on social media and got to read others’ viewpoints on this matter, and summarize a few of them here, for you.
The Input Received:
“Hi Dana. I’m uncomfortable with social media. Esp when it comes to kids.
Not apples to apples. But similar to cigarettes.
Tobacco industry’s research revealed it was harmful to kids.
Facebook’s research did the same.
Expecting AI to be worse.
Talk of government regulation is laughable.
When was most recent federal legislation passed that effectively stemmed the tide of social media?
I happen to agree with Mr Coombs.
I’ve worried about this issue since the explosion of social media earlier this century.
Part of my life‘s work, in anticipating the evils that social media will bring out, has in fact been to coax more of my intelligent colleagues to come into the space, and help make it a safer one.
“Social media really is a two-sided coin, isn’t it, Dana Corriel, MD? It brings us together, yet it can push us apart just as fast. I think it’s about balance and using it to spread the good stuff—knowledge, kindness, support. How do you think we can tilt the balance to favor positive connections and learning?
It’s about balance for sure. And also about intention.
My concern isn’t so much about how WE use it, as we have good intentions.
It’s about those that don’t.
Social media as a multi-way communication method for us to discuss and come to consensus on ideas is beautiful in its ideal form. Unfortunately, for-profit motivations built in algorithms that activate our emotional brain regions but not our critical thinking regions
Social Media is not something we need to question. It is reality and it is the how people will interact moving forward. We need to embrace it, accept it and contribute to make it better. Thank you Dana. The dialog is the beginning of improving it.
Social media promotes silos of likeminded people. Search for success measured in likes, impressions and connections etc.. won’t be in disagreement or dialogue. Cancel those who disagree. Easier than discussion and division grows.
Sarah M Worthy,
1stCEO and Founder at Door Space Inc: