Feb 15, 2023

6 Example Essays on Social Media | Advantages, Effects, and Outlines

Got an essay assignment about the effects of social media we got you covered check out our examples and outlines below.

Social media has become one of our society's most prominent ways of communication and information sharing in a very short time. It has changed how we communicate and has given us a platform to express our views and opinions and connect with others. It keeps us informed about the world around us. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn have brought individuals from all over the world together, breaking down geographical borders and fostering a genuinely global community.

However, social media comes with its difficulties. With the rise of misinformation, cyberbullying, and privacy problems, it's critical to utilize these platforms properly and be aware of the risks. Students in the academic world are frequently assigned essays about the impact of social media on numerous elements of our lives, such as relationships, politics, and culture. These essays necessitate a thorough comprehension of the subject matter, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesize and convey information clearly and succinctly.

But where do you begin? It can be challenging to know where to start with so much information available. Jenni.ai comes in handy here. Jenni.ai is an AI application built exclusively for students to help them write essays more quickly and easily. Jenni.ai provides students with inspiration and assistance on how to approach their essays with its enormous database of sample essays on a variety of themes, including social media. Jenni.ai is the solution you've been looking for if you're experiencing writer's block or need assistance getting started.

So, whether you're a student looking to better your essay writing skills or want to remain up to date on the latest social media advancements, Jenni.ai is here to help. Jenni.ai is the ideal tool for helping you write your finest essay ever, thanks to its simple design, an extensive database of example essays, and cutting-edge AI technology. So, why delay? Sign up for a free trial of Jenni.ai today and begin exploring the worlds of social networking and essay writing!

Want to learn how to write an argumentative essay? Check out these inspiring examples!

We will provide various examples of social media essays so you may get a feel for the genre.

6 Examples of Social Media Essays

Here are 6 examples of Social Media Essays:

The Impact of Social Media on Relationships and Communication

Introduction:.

The way we share information and build relationships has evolved as a direct result of the prevalence of social media in our daily lives. The influence of social media on interpersonal connections and conversation is a hot topic. Although social media has many positive effects, such as bringing people together regardless of physical proximity and making communication quicker and more accessible, it also has a dark side that can affect interpersonal connections and dialogue.

Positive Effects:

Connecting People Across Distances

One of social media's most significant benefits is its ability to connect individuals across long distances. People can use social media platforms to interact and stay in touch with friends and family far away. People can now maintain intimate relationships with those they care about, even when physically separated.

Improved Communication Speed and Efficiency

Additionally, the proliferation of social media sites has accelerated and simplified communication. Thanks to instant messaging, users can have short, timely conversations rather than lengthy ones via email. Furthermore, social media facilitates group communication, such as with classmates or employees, by providing a unified forum for such activities.

Negative Effects:

Decreased Face-to-Face Communication

The decline in in-person interaction is one of social media's most pernicious consequences on interpersonal connections and dialogue. People's reliance on digital communication over in-person contact has increased along with the popularity of social media. Face-to-face interaction has suffered as a result, which has adverse effects on interpersonal relationships and the development of social skills.

Decreased Emotional Intimacy

Another adverse effect of social media on relationships and communication is decreased emotional intimacy. Digital communication lacks the nonverbal cues and facial expressions critical in building emotional connections with others. This can make it more difficult for people to develop close and meaningful relationships, leading to increased loneliness and isolation.

Increased Conflict and Miscommunication

Finally, social media can also lead to increased conflict and miscommunication. The anonymity and distance provided by digital communication can lead to misunderstandings and hurtful comments that might not have been made face-to-face. Additionally, social media can provide a platform for cyberbullying , which can have severe consequences for the victim's mental health and well-being.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the impact of social media on relationships and communication is a complex issue with both positive and negative effects. While social media platforms offer many benefits, such as connecting people across distances and enabling faster and more accessible communication, they also have a dark side that can negatively affect relationships and communication. It is up to individuals to use social media responsibly and to prioritize in-person communication in their relationships and interactions with others.

The Role of Social Media in the Spread of Misinformation and Fake News

Social media has revolutionized the way information is shared and disseminated. However, the ease and speed at which data can be spread on social media also make it a powerful tool for spreading misinformation and fake news. Misinformation and fake news can seriously affect public opinion, influence political decisions, and even cause harm to individuals and communities.

The Pervasiveness of Misinformation and Fake News on Social Media

Misinformation and fake news are prevalent on social media platforms, where they can spread quickly and reach a large audience. This is partly due to the way social media algorithms work, which prioritizes content likely to generate engagement, such as sensational or controversial stories. As a result, false information can spread rapidly and be widely shared before it is fact-checked or debunked.

The Influence of Social Media on Public Opinion

Social media can significantly impact public opinion, as people are likelier to believe the information they see shared by their friends and followers. This can lead to a self-reinforcing cycle, where misinformation and fake news are spread and reinforced, even in the face of evidence to the contrary.

The Challenge of Correcting Misinformation and Fake News

Correcting misinformation and fake news on social media can be a challenging task. This is partly due to the speed at which false information can spread and the difficulty of reaching the same audience exposed to the wrong information in the first place. Additionally, some individuals may be resistant to accepting correction, primarily if the incorrect information supports their beliefs or biases.

In conclusion, the function of social media in disseminating misinformation and fake news is complex and urgent. While social media has revolutionized the sharing of information, it has also made it simpler for false information to propagate and be widely believed. Individuals must be accountable for the information they share and consume, and social media firms must take measures to prevent the spread of disinformation and fake news on their platforms.

The Effects of Social Media on Mental Health and Well-Being

Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of people around the world using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay connected with others and access information. However, while social media has many benefits, it can also negatively affect mental health and well-being.

Comparison and Low Self-Esteem

One of the key ways that social media can affect mental health is by promoting feelings of comparison and low self-esteem. People often present a curated version of their lives on social media, highlighting their successes and hiding their struggles. This can lead others to compare themselves unfavorably, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

Another way that social media can negatively impact mental health is through cyberbullying and online harassment. Social media provides a platform for anonymous individuals to harass and abuse others, leading to feelings of anxiety, fear, and depression.

Social Isolation

Despite its name, social media can also contribute to feelings of isolation. At the same time, people may have many online friends but need more meaningful in-person connections and support. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

Addiction and Overuse

Finally, social media can be addictive, leading to overuse and negatively impacting mental health and well-being. People may spend hours each day scrolling through their feeds, neglecting other important areas of their lives, such as work, family, and self-care.

In sum, social media has positive and negative consequences on one's psychological and emotional well-being. Realizing this, and taking measures like reducing one's social media use, reaching out to loved ones for help, and prioritizing one's well-being, are crucial. In addition, it's vital that social media giants take ownership of their platforms and actively encourage excellent mental health and well-being.

The Use of Social Media in Political Activism and Social Movements

Social media has recently become increasingly crucial in political action and social movements. Platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have given people new ways to express themselves, organize protests, and raise awareness about social and political issues.

Raising Awareness and Mobilizing Action

One of the most important uses of social media in political activity and social movements has been to raise awareness about important issues and mobilize action. Hashtags such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, for example, have brought attention to sexual harassment and racial injustice, respectively. Similarly, social media has been used to organize protests and other political actions, allowing people to band together and express themselves on a bigger scale.

Connecting with like-minded individuals

A second method in that social media has been utilized in political activity and social movements is to unite like-minded individuals. Through social media, individuals can join online groups, share knowledge and resources, and work with others to accomplish shared objectives. This has been especially significant for geographically scattered individuals or those without access to traditional means of political organizing.

Challenges and Limitations

As a vehicle for political action and social movements, social media has faced many obstacles and restrictions despite its many advantages. For instance, the propagation of misinformation and fake news on social media can impede attempts to disseminate accurate and reliable information. In addition, social media corporations have been condemned for censorship and insufficient protection of user rights.

In conclusion, social media has emerged as a potent instrument for political activism and social movements, giving voice to previously unheard communities and galvanizing support for change. Social media presents many opportunities for communication and collaboration. Still, users and institutions must be conscious of the risks and limitations of these tools to promote their responsible and productive usage.

The Potential Privacy Concerns Raised by Social Media Use and Data Collection Practices

With billions of users each day on sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, social media has ingrained itself into every aspect of our lives. While these platforms offer a straightforward method to communicate with others and exchange information, they also raise significant concerns over data collecting and privacy. This article will examine the possible privacy issues posed by social media use and data-gathering techniques.

Data Collection and Sharing

The gathering and sharing of personal data are significant privacy issues brought up by social media use. Social networking sites gather user data, including details about their relationships, hobbies, and routines. This information is made available to third-party businesses for various uses, such as marketing and advertising. This can lead to serious concerns about who has access to and uses our personal information.

Lack of Control Over Personal Information

The absence of user control over personal information is a significant privacy issue brought up by social media usage. Social media makes it challenging to limit who has access to and how data is utilized once it has been posted. Sensitive information may end up being extensively disseminated and may be used maliciously as a result.

Personalized Marketing

Social media companies utilize the information they gather about users to target them with adverts relevant to their interests and usage patterns. Although this could be useful, it might also cause consumers to worry about their privacy since they might feel that their personal information is being used without their permission. Furthermore, there are issues with the integrity of the data being used to target users and the possibility of prejudice based on individual traits.

Government Surveillance

Using social media might spark worries about government surveillance. There are significant concerns regarding privacy and free expression when governments in some nations utilize social media platforms to follow and monitor residents.

In conclusion, social media use raises significant concerns regarding data collecting and privacy. While these platforms make it easy to interact with people and exchange information, they also gather a lot of personal information, which raises questions about who may access it and how it will be used. Users should be aware of these privacy issues and take precautions to safeguard their personal information, such as exercising caution when choosing what details to disclose on social media and keeping their information sharing with other firms to a minimum.

The Ethical and Privacy Concerns Surrounding Social Media Use And Data Collection

Our use of social media to communicate with loved ones, acquire information, and even conduct business has become a crucial part of our everyday lives. The extensive use of social media does, however, raise some ethical and privacy issues that must be resolved. The influence of social media use and data collecting on user rights, the accountability of social media businesses, and the need for improved regulation are all topics that will be covered in this article.

Effect on Individual Privacy:

Social networking sites gather tons of personal data from their users, including delicate information like search history, location data, and even health data. Each user's detailed profile may be created with this data and sold to advertising or used for other reasons. Concerns regarding the privacy of personal information might arise because social media businesses can use this data to target users with customized adverts.

Additionally, individuals might need to know how much their personal information is being gathered and exploited. Data breaches or the unauthorized sharing of personal information with other parties may result in instances where sensitive information is exposed. Users should be aware of the privacy rules of social media firms and take precautions to secure their data.

Responsibility of Social Media Companies:

Social media firms should ensure that they responsibly and ethically gather and use user information. This entails establishing strong security measures to safeguard sensitive information and ensuring users are informed of what information is being collected and how it is used.

Many social media businesses, nevertheless, have come under fire for not upholding these obligations. For instance, the Cambridge Analytica incident highlighted how Facebook users' personal information was exploited for political objectives without their knowledge. This demonstrates the necessity of social media corporations being held responsible for their deeds and ensuring that they are safeguarding the security and privacy of their users.

Better Regulation Is Needed

There is a need for tighter regulation in this field, given the effect, social media has on individual privacy as well as the obligations of social media firms. The creation of laws and regulations that ensure social media companies are gathering and using user information ethically and responsibly, as well as making sure users are aware of their rights and have the ability to control the information that is being collected about them, are all part of this.

Additionally, legislation should ensure that social media businesses are held responsible for their behavior, for example, by levying fines for data breaches or the unauthorized use of personal data. This will provide social media businesses with a significant incentive to prioritize their users' privacy and security and ensure they are upholding their obligations.

In conclusion, social media has fundamentally changed how we engage and communicate with one another, but this increased convenience also raises several ethical and privacy issues. Essential concerns that need to be addressed include the effect of social media on individual privacy, the accountability of social media businesses, and the requirement for greater regulation to safeguard user rights. We can make everyone's online experience safer and more secure by looking more closely at these issues.

In conclusion, social media is a complex and multifaceted topic that has recently captured the world's attention. With its ever-growing influence on our lives, it's no surprise that it has become a popular subject for students to explore in their writing. Whether you are writing an argumentative essay on the impact of social media on privacy, a persuasive essay on the role of social media in politics, or a descriptive essay on the changes social media has brought to the way we communicate, there are countless angles to approach this subject.

However, writing a comprehensive and well-researched essay on social media can be daunting. It requires a thorough understanding of the topic and the ability to articulate your ideas clearly and concisely. This is where Jenni.ai comes in. Our AI-powered tool is designed to help students like you save time and energy and focus on what truly matters - your education. With Jenni.ai , you'll have access to a wealth of examples and receive personalized writing suggestions and feedback.

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THE HOURGLASS

Design and graphics by Greyson Walko 25

Is Social Media Bringing Us Together or Pulling Us Apart?

Lauren and Eesha disagree on technology’s effectiveness of communication.

Lauren Halak ‘24 and Eesha Sharma ‘24 | March 18, 2022

Is+Social+Media+Bringing+Us+Together+or+Pulling+Us+Apart%3F

In the age of technology, social media is an accessible method of communication, connecting hundreds upon thousands of people ranging from your neighbor to someone living across the world. But is social media really bringing us together, or is it responsible for tearing relationships apart? 

Social media might first seem like it helps foster relationships with instant communication through DMs, stories, posts, and more. But it is clear social media is becoming a platform that does quite the opposite.

Users can post virtually whatever they want, with little regard for accuracy. By hiding behind a screen, people feel comfortable sharing even their most controversial thoughts with a large audience, something they would likely not feel comfortable doing in person. 

Inflammatory posts can lead to extreme polarization, and not just on the internet. As Eli Pariser, author of “The Filter Bubble: What the Internet Is Hiding from You”, said in Vox , “Where I live and who my friends are and what media I consume all shape what I see, which then shapes decisions I make about what media I consume and where to live and who to be friends with.” 

Not only does constant conflict take place online, but social media has a well-known reputation for being extremely fake. Users can post fake or edited pictures of themselves just to garner attention through likes and comments. As an article on Odyssey puts it, “We become so fake with one another that it’s hard to distinguish who’s real and who’s not.”  

How can users form relationships online when they aren’t guaranteed honesty from the person they’re communicating with? The ability users have to put up a facade online allows fake relationships to form, and real ones to fall apart.

Although social media has gained a negative reputation for tearing us apart, at its core, it brings people together. Social media helps people stay in touch regardless of distance or busy schedules. 

Social media provides a platform for old friends or family to connect. People with family across the world or friends who they have not seen in a long time can see what they are up to on social media. This aids people in staying up to date on each other’s lives and maintaining communication between each other. 

Communicating online is also easier for many people. Social media can be a tool for those who might be unable to connect with others as easily in real life. As HelpGuide states, “Social media enables you to find vital social connection if you live in a remote area, for example, or have limited independence, social anxiety, or are part of a marginalized group.” 

Ultimately, social media’s impact depends on how it is used. Users have control over how social media affects them. Although its power can be abused, it can also be harnessed and turned into something beneficial.

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THE STUDENT NEWS SITE OF THE BALDWIN SCHOOL

Psychologies

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Does social media bring us together or push us apart.

The digital world is our fourth dimension. But does social media bring us together or push us apart? We ask Laurence Scott, author of 'The Four Dimensional Human: Ways Of Being In The Digital World'

Ali Roff Farrar

How does living in the ‘fourth dimension’ affect us?

The ‘fourth dimension’ is a metaphor for the collection of experiences we have that are now based on digital technology; this ceaseless ability to communicate with each other and to gain information about the world around us.

I was sitting at my breakfast table recently, wondering about social media and how so many moments of our lives are being put up for others to comment on and approve or disapprove of; the clichéd example is our meals, but these moments must have an extra quality to them that unposted ones don’t have.

And once we do post these moments out into the world for public consumption, they then have this extra dimension to them. It also struck me that we are constantly being trained by social media to think about moments of our lives with regard to whether they are worthy of promotion at this extra level.

Will we ever be the same again?

I was watching a Woody Allen film the other day and I felt very nostalgic; it was a 1980s film and the characters were at a family party. As the camera moved around the room, I realised that everyone inside those walls was stuck for the whole evening with whoever was physically there. Unless they asked the host to use their phone and call someone else, they really had to make do with the company of the people who were there in person.

Today, I’m not sure that will ever be the case again. I think our ‘solid walls’ – where in a physical sense people are kept together and also kept apart – will never be the same, and it has a huge impact in terms of how present we are around each other, as there will always be other options of people you can communicate with outside those walls.

Are we neglecting the physical world when we’re living in the fourth dimension?

With our limitless opportunities for living online, there’s a real sense that it’s almost a part of our citizenship to get involved in the constant digital communication. Yet at the same time, we are constantly being told via this medium that our physical world and environment is under threat. It’s a great platform for activists to get their messages out there about fracking or the decline of the bee population. So it’s not so much that we are neglecting it, but more that we are hyperaware of it, funnily enough.

Does togetherness count, no matter what the format?

Some people take great joy from keeping in contact with loved ones over Skype or through social media. There’s one example of a grandfather in America who talks to his grandchild every week over dinner, which is a valuable interaction for the grandfather, as the child displays its affection through the fourth dimension.

But what’s interesting, and it’s hard to tell because the child is so small, is whether the child has an affection for the digital interface as the person themselves or as a representation of the person. At the same time, the idea that Skype actually makes people lonelier is a very common feeling, in that there is almost a cruelty in this ability to talk to someone, but not actually be able to reach out and touch them.

I think the most interesting idea is that when we meet face-to-face, there is another person there who is different from us. We understand that there’s another human being to negotiate with and relate to, and there’s never that expectation that we’d know someone fully or be constantly available to someone else. Yet with social media, the idea being sold to us is that we are all ‘in it together’. There is this strange confusion whereby we feel we should be feeling close to people, but social media collapses all distinctions between ‘each other’. We can communicate in this way, and yet we know we are not really totally satisfied.

Have we now become addicted to, or even trapped by our use of social media?

A friend of mine was over from Canada and Skyping her sister and her child back home, and there was obvious jubilation in the ability to call them and say hello. Yet there is another element to connecting via social media, where we wait and wait for a response from someone, or hold a sense of entitlement that people will always be on tap; that everyone in our lives is constantly sitting behind this little door that we can open and shut whenever we want.

There is also silence online; it’s not so much what we’re always saying to each other, but the ways in which we’re not speaking to each other that I think is what people find most difficult to deal with. Take, for example, the ‘seen by’ or ‘read’ function on Facebook or WhatsApp. People have always been waiting by the phone when they expect or want to hear from someone, but now we’re in this new situation in which we know that a silence is particularly targeted at us, that we are alone and not being responded to because the other person is being active on social media but not responding to us. We are becoming attuned to the ways in which we are not speaking to one another.

What role does the fear of our gadgets play in our four-dimensional lives?

On the one hand, we’re constantly being told that there is no going back, that social media is here to stay; going forward it will be part of citizenship and consumerism to have an online presence. But running parallel to that is the idea that these technologies aren’t healthy for us, and there is a huge industry of digital detoxing that takes so many forms. So there’s a strange sense that we’re both obliged and afraid at the same time.

We might feel quite guilty for saying that the advancements into digital technologies aren’t a good thing. But there’s a real craving for spaces that aren’t occupied in any way by wi-fi. It’s amazing that even if we send people to Mars, they’ll be able to tweet their families from there. Even the night sky is being pulled into our grid.

Laurence Scott is author of The Four-Dimensional Human: Ways Of Being In The Digital World (William Heinemann, £20)

Photograph: iStock

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7 Ways Social Media Brings People Together

While social media sometimes divides us, it can also help us connect. Here are some ways social media brings people together.

Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook were created to universally connect us. These applications are an excellent way to meet new people and reconnect with old friends.

While it's well known that social media platforms can divide us, it has also given us an opportunity to make connections with others. Making the world a much smaller place.

Here are the ways that social media brings people together...

1. Keeping in Touch With Friends and Family

Many people around the world experience loneliness. It may be because you are newly single, widowed, have moved away from family and friends for work—or you may just be shy and uncomfortable with in-person interaction.

Thankfully, social media allows us to connect with anyone, at any time.

It's a great way to reconnect with people you have lost touch with and keep in contact with your loved ones. Check out our guide on stopping strangers from seeing your Facebook if you want to up your privacy settings.

2. Maintaining Long-Distance Relationships

Sometimes, life keeps couples physically apart from one another. But through social media, you and your partner can stay connected without needing to constantly chat.

You can look through each other's photos and reminisce, then connect via Messenger chat. Facebook's Messenger application also has a video call option available when you want some face-to-face time.

To use Facebook Messenger's video call feature:

  • Open Messenger.
  • In the search box at the top, search for the person you wish to chat with.
  • Click on their conversation and press the video camera icon .

Long-distance relationships are easier to maintain than ever with the help of social media. If you and your partner are separated by distance, never fear: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are here.

If you're looking for different messaging apps to try, consider checking out the best all-in-one messaging platforms to simplify your communications .

3. Sharing Pictures With Your Family and Friends

Many families live away from each other and this can be very difficult for everyone involved. Grandparents, especially, have a difficult time being away from their grandchildren. But social media is an easy way to stay connected even when you're far apart.

Sharing photos to your Instagram account is a great way for your family to feel like they are involved in your everyday activities. The platform lets you share as many photos as you like and it's easy to use even for beginners. You can add artistic filters to your photos, tag people in them, and privately chat via their message application.

Instagram can be used on your phone or computer. If you want to make a new post on Instagram, follow the tips in this article detailing how to post on Instagram from your PC or Mac . Your family will enjoy seeing what you're up to every day!

4. Connecting Through Facebook Groups

Social media has given us the amazing ability to connect with people on the internet and turn them into friends. Many strong bonds have been forged through shared hobbies and interests.

Facebook lets you search for and join various groups and communities where you can chat, post questions, and engage with other people. There are groups available for physical illnesses, mental health diagnoses, television shows, and places of employment.

If you are feeling lonely, joining a Facebook group is a perfect way to meet people who share the same interests as you.

How to Join Groups on Facebook

To join a group on Facebook, follow these steps:

  • Go to the search bar at the top of your Facebook homepage.
  • Type in a topic.
  • Select the "Group" option at the top of your screen.
  • When you find a group you want to join, press the "+Join" button. Some groups may ask qualifying questions to see if you're right for the group, answer them, and click submit.

Then, wait for your request to be approved and start connecting!

Remember to protect your personal safety: you should never volunteer information about yourself online. If anyone you meet in a Facebook group asks you for your personal information, be sure to report it to the group's administrator.

Facebook groups are an excellent way to make friends and business connections. After all, a stranger is just a friend you haven't met yet.

5. Joining Social Media Movements

Social media has brought many of us closer together. One of the major ways people are uniting is via social media movements like the "Me Too" movement against sexual harassment and assault, which is one of the many Twitter hashtags that have shaped history .

People who have experienced these terrible crimes have come together to tell their stories and stand up against the exploitation of vulnerable people.

The birthplace of many social media movements is on Twitter. People use hashtags such as #metoo to unite all the posts in one place and tell their stories. Hashtags have brought attention to many injustices in the world and have also bonded people together in times of tragedy.

6. Meeting New People

We spoke earlier about how social media helps you connect with your existing loved ones, but platforms like Instagram and Twitter are also excellent for meeting new people with similar interests. For example, if you have a hobby like photography, you could potentially make lifelong friends by meeting these people in real life and going for regular photoshoots.

Sports fans can similarly use social media networks to meet fans of the same or different teams, and even watch games together. The more niche your interests are, the better social media is for helping you find like-minded people. Consider trying these great social media apps for making friends in your community if you're looking to build your network.

7. Helping People Reunite With Others and Items

In addition to raising awareness for important global issues, social media is also powerful in potentially dangerous situations. For example, some people have used Facebook and Twitter to share details of missing people or pets—which has allowed others to inform the original poster if they see or know something.

Similarly, social media is useful for reuniting people with items that they might have lost—such as their house keys or wallet.

Social Media Can Be a Positive Influence

These are just a few of the many ways that social media connects us all in our daily lives. Because when you open yourself up to the idea of making friends online, the possibilities for connecting are endless.

Sure, many people will condemn social media for being a negative influence on our lives—but it's up to us to use social media as a force for good rather than bad.

Home — Essay Samples — Sociology — Sociology of Media and Communication — Social Media

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Argumentative Essays About Social Media

This is a comprehensive resource to help you find the perfect social media essay topic. Whether you're navigating the complexities of digital communication, exploring the impact of social media on society, or examining its effects on personal identity, the right topic can transform your essay into a captivating and insightful exploration. Remember, selecting a topic that resonates with your personal interests and academic goals not only makes the writing process more enjoyable but also enriches your learning experience. Let's dive into a world of creativity and critical thinking!

Essay Types and Topics

Below, you'll find a curated list of essay topics organized by type. Each section includes diverse topics that touch on technology, society, personal growth, and academic interests, along with introduction and conclusion paragraph examples to get you started.

Argumentative Essays

Introduction Example: "In the digital age, social media platforms have become central to our daily interactions and self-perception, particularly among teenagers. This essay explores the impact of social media on teen self-esteem, arguing that while it offers a space for expression and connection, it also presents significant challenges to self-image. "

Conclusion Example: "Having delved into the complex relationship between social media and teen self-esteem, it is clear that the digital landscape holds profound effects on individual self-perception. This essay reaffirms the thesis that social media can both uplift and undermine teen self-esteem, calling for a balanced approach to digital engagement."

Introduction Example: "As political landscapes evolve, social media has emerged as a powerful tool for political mobilization and engagement. This essay investigates the role of social media in shaping political movements, positing that it significantly enhances communication and organizational capabilities, yet raises questions about information authenticity. "

Conclusion Example: "Through examining the dual facets of social media in political mobilization, the essay concludes that while social media is a pivotal tool for engagement, it necessitates critical scrutiny of information to ensure a well-informed public discourse."

Compare and Contrast Essays

Introduction Example: "In the competitive realm of digital marketing, Instagram and Twitter stand out as leading platforms for brand promotion. This essay compares and contrasts their effectiveness, revealing that each platform caters to unique marketing strengths due to its specific user engagement and content dissemination strategies. "

Conclusion Example: "The comparative analysis of Instagram and Twitter highlights distinct advantages for brands, with Instagram excelling in visual storytelling and Twitter in real-time engagement, underscoring the importance of strategic platform selection in digital marketing."

Descriptive Essays

Introduction Example: "Today's social media landscape is a vibrant tapestry of platforms, each contributing to the digital era's social fabric. This essay describes the characteristics and cultural significance of current social media trends, illustrating that they reflect and shape our societal values and interactions. "

Conclusion Example: "In portraying the dynamic and diverse nature of today's social media landscape, this essay underscores its role in molding contemporary cultural and social paradigms, inviting readers to reflect on their digital footprints."

Persuasive Essays

Introduction Example: "In an era where digital presence is ubiquitous, fostering positive social media habits is essential for mental and emotional well-being. This essay advocates for mindful social media use, arguing that intentional engagement can enhance our life experiences rather than detract from them. "

Conclusion Example: "This essay has championed the cause for positive social media habits, reinforcing the thesis that through mindful engagement, individuals can navigate the digital world in a way that promotes personal growth and well-being."

Narrative Essays

Introduction Example: "Embarking on a personal journey with social media has been both enlightening and challenging. This narrative essay delves into my experiences, highlighting how social media has influenced my perception of self and community. "

Conclusion Example: "Reflecting on my social media journey, this essay concludes that while it has significantly shaped my interactions and self-view, it has also offered invaluable lessons on connectivity and self-awareness, affirming the nuanced role of digital platforms in our lives."

Engagement and Creativity

As you explore these topics, remember to approach your essay with an open mind and creative spirit. The purpose of academic writing is not just to inform but to engage and provoke thought. Use this opportunity to delve deep into your topic, analyze different perspectives, and articulate your own insights.

Educational Value

Each essay type offers unique learning outcomes. Argumentative essays enhance your analytical thinking and ability to construct well-founded arguments. Compare and contrast essays develop your skills in identifying similarities and differences. Descriptive essays improve your ability to paint vivid pictures through words, while persuasive essays refine your ability to influence and convince. Finally, narrative essays offer a platform for personal expression and storytelling. Embrace these opportunities to grow academically and personally.

Some Easy Argumentative Essay Topics on Social Media

  • The Impact of Social Media: Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Is Social Media Enhancing or Eroding Our Real-Life Social Skills?
  • Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Social Media Content to Protect Youth?
  • Social Media's Role in Relationships: Communication Enhancer or Barrier
  • Does Social Media Contribute to Political Polarization?
  • The Role of Social Media in Shaping Perceptions of Divorce
  • The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Benefit or Harm?
  • Can Social Media Be Considered a Reliable Source of News and Information?
  • Is Social Media Responsible for the Rise in Cyberbullying?
  • Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
  • Does Social Media Promote Narcissism and Self-Centered Behaviors?
  • The Role of Social Media in Business Marketing: Is It Indispensable?

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Pros and Cons of Social Media: Social Networking

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Social Media Cons and Prons: Evaluating Its Advantages and Disadvantage

The importance of staying safe on social media, impact of social media on our lives, social media: negative effects and addiction, discussion on whether is social media beneficial or harmful for society, negative effects of social media: relationships and communication, social media pros and cons, social media - good and bad sides, a study of the role of social media concerning confidentiality of personal data, how social media causes stereotyping, social media addiction: consequences and strategies for recovery, the role of social media in making us more narcissistic, the effect social media is having on today's society and political atmosphere, digital/social media, censorship in social media, why teenagers are addicted to social media and how it affects them, advantages and disadvantages of social media for society, enormous impact of mass media on children, the role of social media in the current business world, social media is the reason for many of the world’s problems and solutions.

Social media refers to dynamic online platforms that enable individuals to actively engage in the generation and dissemination of various forms of content, including information, ideas, and personal interests. These interactive digital channels foster virtual communities and networks, allowing users to connect, communicate, and express themselves. By harnessing the power of technology, social media platforms provide a space for individuals to share and exchange content, fostering connections and facilitating the flow of information in an increasingly digital world.

In a peculiar manner, the inception of social media can be traced back to May 24, 1844, when a sequence of electronic dots and dashes was manually tapped on a telegraph machine. Although the origins of digital communication have deep historical roots, most contemporary narratives regarding the modern beginnings of the internet and social media often point to the emergence of the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) in 1969. The year 1987 witnessed the establishment of the direct precursor to today's internet, as the National Science Foundation introduced the more robust and expansive NSFNET, a nationwide digital network. A significant milestone occurred in 1997 when Six Degrees, the first genuine social media platform, was launched.

Mark Zuckerberg is a notable figure in the realm of social media as the co-founder and CEO of Facebook. Zuckerberg played a pivotal role in transforming Facebook from a small networking platform for college students into a global social media giant with billions of users. His innovative ideas and strategic decisions have reshaped the way people connect and share information online, making him one of the most influential individuals in the digital age. Jack Dorsey is recognized as one of the key pioneers of social media, notably for co-founding Twitter. Dorsey's creation revolutionized online communication by introducing the concept of microblogging, allowing users to share short messages in real-time. Twitter quickly gained popularity, becoming a powerful platform for news dissemination, public conversations, and social movements. Dorsey's entrepreneurial spirit and vision have contributed significantly to the evolution of social media and its impact on society. Sheryl Sandberg is a prominent figure in the social media landscape, known for her influential role as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Facebook.Sandberg played a crucial part in scaling and monetizing Facebook's operations, transforming it into a global advertising powerhouse. She is also recognized for her advocacy of women's empowerment and leadership in the tech industry, inspiring countless individuals and promoting diversity and inclusion within the social media sphere. Sandberg's contributions have left an indelible mark on the growth and development of social media platforms worldwide.

Social Networking Sites: Facebook, LinkedIn, and MySpace. Microblogging Platforms: Twitter. Media Sharing Networks: Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat. Discussion Forums and Community-Based Platforms: Reddit and Quora. Blogging Platforms: WordPress and Blogger. Social Bookmarking and Content Curation Platforms: Pinterest and Flipboard. Messaging Apps: WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and WeChat.

Facebook (2004), Reddit (2005), Twitter (2006), Instagram (2010), Pinterest (2010), Snapchat (2011), TikTok (2016)

1. Increased Connectivity 2. Information Sharing and Awareness 3. Networking and Professional Opportunities 4. Creativity and Self-Expression 5. Supportive Communities and Causes

1. Privacy Concerns 2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment 3. Information Overload and Misinformation 4. Time and Productivity Drain 5. Comparison and Self-Esteem Issues

The topic of social media holds significant importance for students as it plays a prominent role in their lives, both academically and socially. Social media platforms provide students with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge with peers, expanding their learning networks beyond the confines of the classroom. It facilitates communication and access to educational resources, allowing students to stay updated on academic trends and research. Additionally, social media enhances digital literacy and prepares students for the realities of the digital age. However, it is crucial for students to develop critical thinking skills to navigate the potential pitfalls of social media, such as misinformation and online safety, ensuring a responsible and balanced use of these platforms.

The topic of social media is worthy of being explored in an essay due to its profound impact on various aspects of society. Writing an essay on social media allows for an in-depth examination of its influence on communication, relationships, information sharing, and societal dynamics. It offers an opportunity to analyze the advantages and disadvantages, exploring topics such as privacy, online identities, social activism, and the role of social media in shaping cultural norms. Additionally, studying social media enables a critical evaluation of its effects on mental health, politics, and business. By delving into this subject, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the complex and ever-evolving digital landscape we inhabit.

1. Social media users spend an average of 2 hours and 25 minutes per day on social networking platforms. This amounts to over 7 years of an individual's lifetime spent on social media, highlighting its significant presence in our daily lives. 2. Instagram has over 1 billion monthly active users, with more than 500 million of them using the platform on a daily basis. 3. YouTube has over 2 billion logged-in monthly active users. On average, users spend over 1 billion hours watching YouTube videos every day, emphasizing the platform's extensive reach and the power of video content. 4. Social media has become a major news source, with 48% of people getting their news from social media platforms. This shift in news consumption highlights the role of social media in shaping public opinion and disseminating information in real-time. 5. Influencer marketing has grown exponentially, with 63% of marketers planning to increase their influencer marketing budget in the coming year. This showcases the effectiveness of influencers in reaching and engaging with target audiences, and the value brands place on leveraging social media personalities to promote their products or services.

1. Schober, M. F., Pasek, J., Guggenheim, L., Lampe, C., & Conrad, F. G. (2016). Social media analyses for social measurement. Public opinion quarterly, 80(1), 180-211. (https://academic.oup.com/poq/article-abstract/80/1/180/2593846) 2. Appel, G., Grewal, L., Hadi, R., & Stephen, A. T. (2020). The future of social media in marketing. Journal of the Academy of Marketing science, 48(1), 79-95. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11747-019-00695-1?error=cookies_not_support) 3. Aichner, T., Grünfelder, M., Maurer, O., & Jegeni, D. (2021). Twenty-five years of social media: a review of social media applications and definitions from 1994 to 2019. Cyberpsychology, behavior, and social networking, 24(4), 215-222. (https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/cyber.2020.0134) 4. Ruths, D., & Pfeffer, J. (2014). Social media for large studies of behavior. Science, 346(6213), 1063-1064. (https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/science.346.6213.1063) 5. Hou, Y., Xiong, D., Jiang, T., Song, L., & Wang, Q. (2019). Social media addiction: Its impact, mediation, and intervention. Cyberpsychology: Journal of psychosocial research on cyberspace, 13(1). (https://cyberpsychology.eu/article/view/11562) 6. Auxier, B., & Anderson, M. (2021). Social media use in 2021. Pew Research Center, 1, 1-4. (https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2021/04/PI_2021.04.07_Social-Media-Use_FINAL.pdf) 7. Al-Samarraie, H., Bello, K. A., Alzahrani, A. I., Smith, A. P., & Emele, C. (2021). Young users' social media addiction: causes, consequences and preventions. Information Technology & People, 35(7), 2314-2343. (https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ITP-11-2020-0753/full/html) 8. Bhargava, V. R., & Velasquez, M. (2021). Ethics of the attention economy: The problem of social media addiction. Business Ethics Quarterly, 31(3), 321-359. (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/business-ethics-quarterly/article/ethics-of-the-attention-economy-the-problem-of-social-mediaaddiction/1CC67609A12E9A912BB8A291FDFFE799)

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essay on social media draws us together

Essay on Social Media for School Students and Children

500+ words essay on social media.

Social media is a tool that is becoming quite popular these days because of its user-friendly features. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and more are giving people a chance to connect with each other across distances. In other words, the whole world is at our fingertips all thanks to social media. The youth is especially one of the most dominant users of social media. All this makes you wonder that something so powerful and with such a massive reach cannot be all good. Like how there are always two sides to a coin, the same goes for social media. Subsequently, different people have different opinions on this debatable topic. So, in this essay on Social Media, we will see the advantages and disadvantages of social media.

Essay on Social Media

Advantages of Social Media

When we look at the positive aspect of social media, we find numerous advantages. The most important being a great device for education . All the information one requires is just a click away. Students can educate themselves on various topics using social media.

Moreover, live lectures are now possible because of social media. You can attend a lecture happening in America while sitting in India.

Furthermore, as more and more people are distancing themselves from newspapers, they are depending on social media for news. You are always updated on the latest happenings of the world through it. A person becomes more socially aware of the issues of the world.

In addition, it strengthens bonds with your loved ones. Distance is not a barrier anymore because of social media. For instance, you can easily communicate with your friends and relatives overseas.

Most importantly, it also provides a great platform for young budding artists to showcase their talent for free. You can get great opportunities for employment through social media too.

Another advantage definitely benefits companies who wish to promote their brands. Social media has become a hub for advertising and offers you great opportunities for connecting with the customer.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Disadvantages of Social Media

Despite having such unique advantages, social media is considered to be one of the most harmful elements of society. If the use of social media is not monitored, it can lead to grave consequences.

essay on social media draws us together

Thus, the sharing on social media especially by children must be monitored at all times. Next up is the addition of social media which is quite common amongst the youth.

This addiction hampers with the academic performance of a student as they waste their time on social media instead of studying. Social media also creates communal rifts. Fake news is spread with the use of it, which poisons the mind of peace-loving citizens.

In short, surely social media has both advantages and disadvantages. But, it all depends on the user at the end. The youth must particularly create a balance between their academic performances, physical activities, and social media. Excess use of anything is harmful and the same thing applies to social media. Therefore, we must strive to live a satisfying life with the right balance.

essay on social media draws us together

FAQs on Social Media

Q.1 Is social media beneficial? If yes, then how?

A.1 Social media is quite beneficial. Social Media offers information, news, educational material, a platform for talented youth and brands.

Q.2 What is a disadvantage of Social Media?

A.2 Social media invades your privacy. It makes you addicted and causes health problems. It also results in cyberbullying and scams as well as communal hatred.

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Social Media Essay: Benefits and Drawbacks of Social Networking Sites

The advent of various social media channels has revolutionized the internet landscape by introducing us to global networking. Today, an individual can connect with another in a completely different part of this world just in a matter of seconds. We will take you through various notions and opinions associated with social media and how they impact our everyday lives. Also, there are some incredible tips to give you a better insight into how to write a social media essay.

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Table of Contents

What is social media essay, how do you write a social media essay, structure of social media essay, various tones of a social media essay, incorporate an attractive topic.

As you know, an social media essay is a piece of writing that is used to introduce an essential topic to the world with its underlying advantages and disadvantages. These aspects are driven solely by facts and should not contain the opinions of the writers. It is drafted to give others a better understanding of the subject in hand.

No matter which subject it pertains to, an essay ends with a conclusion where the writers are permitted to give their opinion after weighing the advantages and disadvantages.

Similarly, a social media essay is written to appreciate the positive aspects and highlight the negative impacts of social media in this time and day. The conclusions include the analysis of the two elements by the writers in their own lives and give an open-ended point of view. Depending upon the essay writer or paper writing service , the decision can be decisive, too, but that is not encouraged.

Today, the use of social networks, whether it is Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, or LinkedIn, has increased exponentially. An average millennial spends 2 hours and 58 minutes per day on social media platforms like Facebook. While some say that the platform is super-informative, others argue that all the information gathered on this platform is trivial and doesn't justify long hours invested in the use of social media.

The above arguments make using social media by individuals with a debatable issue, and this is why a lot of students are required to write an essay on social media. So, here are some incredible tips to help you out in writing an essay on social media even if you don't have marketing skills .

A classic essay consists of 3 parts – the introduction, main body, and the conclusion.

  • The Introduction

As you introduce the main topic, always begin with how it is relevant to the current scenario. You can do this by providing some background information. The information can be made richer by adding some reliable stats and data . Once you have established the topic, you need to give a strong thesis statement of the hypothesis on which your essay is based.

The thesis statement in your essay should be precise and debatable. If not, the arguments that you are going to put forward in the essay would make no sense.

The main body of your text should consist of logical arguments in relevance to your hypothesis. Make sure you put forward one statement in one paragraph and start a new one with another section. This will make your essay look more organized.

Also, when developing ideas, only include the ones you can write clearly about. If not, avoid them. Make sure that the essay develops coherently.

To conclude the essay about social media, bring back your hypothesis, and state how the aspects you discussed earlier support or nullify it. Make it a point to summarize all ideas, but do not start adding more ideas when you are about to conclude. You can now give an, ideally, open end to your essay.

A great conclusion is the one that provokes thought and will make your readers question the use of social media in their everyday lives.

Also, remember that essays do not have to include pros and cons always. They can either be full of pros or cons or both, depending upon your hypothesis. Just ensure they are relevant.

You might believe that an essay is an essay, and two of them would be similar, but that's a misconception. Different essays have varying tones depending on how the author is treating the thesis statement through the main body of the text. Here are a few examples of essays on social media in different tones.

  • Sample of a Persuasive Essay

If you are asked to write an academic paper about the effects of social media on the mental health of teenagers and young adults, you should make it persuasive. For this, just writing about the topic is not enough. It would help if you had an impactful thesis, followed by powerful arguments to support or question your theory.

The perils associated with social media addiction are forcing parents and "grown-ups" to throw their benefits in bad light today. In the race to become best in academics and non-academic activities, people are losing their grip on how social networks bring people together. They empower individuals with knowledge about various cultures and languages, which might not have been possible otherwise.

Social media sites can be addictive, and students might waste their formative years scrolling through the trivial feed and gain nothing but superficial knowledge. But that is just because neither parents nor the school is encouraging positive social media behavior. If these institutions start offering tips to students to limit and utilize their time on social media , one would be amazed to see their achievements.

Is social media a catalyst for the downfall of student life? Well, social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and more are teeming with inspirational achievers and content creators who go the extra mile to share their stories and inspire students. If the children are taught to see their access to social media as an opportunity to grow rather than a competition for likes and followers, they are bound to work harder and achieve goals that seemed insurmountable earlier.

  • Sample of Negative Essay about social media

If you have been asked to highlight the negative aspects of social media, your teacher does not mean that you have to cross all limits to present the use of social media in a bad light. Instead, what they are asking for is some logical and believable arguments that tell us why social media is harmful to society.

Social media is destroying family links by creating a virtual shell for each individual, which dissociates them with their own parents and siblings. The kids are adversely affected by increased access to social media if parents are always indulged in their devices and ignore them. Eventually, even kids start using tools to connect to other people, ignoring their family members.

Since kids and teenagers are the most impressionable age groups, they start believing that everything that glitters on social media platforms is gold, and they become materialistic. Their lives start revolving around likes, comments, and followers/subscribers. No matter whether their minds are prepared for such exposure or not, social media exposes them to the best and the worst about this world, which might turn them into rebels. They start valuing their online friends more than their offline lives and go to unimaginable extents to keep them entertained.

So, parents and elders need to pay attention to their children and limit their social media use so that they can learn to form real relationships and values.

  • Weighing the pros and cons

Another way in which you can present your social media essay is by comparing the positive and negative aspects associated with it. In such essays, the conclusion is better left open for the readers to decide their own take on social media.

One cannot argue that social media has taken the world by storm by allowing like-minded individuals to connect and share their experiences with the world. You can use these platforms to make new friends and discover the ones who have lost touch. You can talk to everyone on your friend list and share your content on these channels to become a part of the creators' community. There is no dearth for talent on social media and its admirers.

On the other hand, if you use social media sites for long stretches of time in one go, you run the risk of addiction. Gradually, a social media addict starts to build a cocoon for themselves, which they find hard to step out of. This leads to a disconnect between you and the family you already have and love. One might feel too confined yet comfortable in their space that they have no urge left to step out, pushing them towards social seclusion, or worse – depression.

When you flip the coin again, you will discover that social media has become an incredible platform for small businesses to grow and earn good profits . The grass-root companies do not have to invest much for advertising and promotion or even own an establishment. All they have to do is to create a grassroots marketing strategy for themselves, and their brand will start selling in no time!

In the end, social media is a game-changer on the World Wide Web. It allows people to connect with the virtual world with the risk of disconnecting with the real world. Then again, businesses are doing well on these platforms. There are indeed two sides to social media, one positive and another negative, and it is up to you which one you lean towards more.

  • Argumentative social media essay

A challenging but equally exciting type of essay on social media you should know about is an argumentative essay. It is often written when you are tasked with altering the point of view of the reader, which is of a completely opposite belief. Here is a sample for your better understanding.

Social networks have an uncertain future with the string impression they leave on users, especially the younger generations. Parents panic with the first mention of social media sites by their children and learning about their presence on these platforms because they are afraid of cyberbullying. They do not want their children to get cat-fished by some stranger on Reddit when they are not around.

Moreover, social media platforms are the reason why several individuals are losing their confidential data every day to corporate houses. These businesses are using the information to bug users with ads about stuff they do not want to buy.

If such instances carry on, the day is not far when the government will start to keep checks on the likes of Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and other channels. Massive surveillance will be imposed on these sites to prevent malicious minds from harming innocent teenagers physically or by hacking into their systems. So, before you get a chance to ask " have I been hacked ", know that someone is taking care of it.

Having an attractive topic for your social media essay does not mean using poetic words in it. You should have an issue relevant to the current scenario. In the process of selecting a fascinating topic, do not forget to keep it within the extents of your knowledge. If it becomes too complicated for you to write about, you will be stuck when coming up with arguments and ideas.

The perfect topic would be the one which offers good potential for research and is interesting for the readers too. Even if you present profound arguments about such topics, they should be in a logical, comprehensible, and readable format for people to understand easily.

Writing a social media essay is no cakewalk, whether you are a high-school student or university student. All you need to do is, structuralize it properly, be clear with the ideas and arguments you are planning to present, pick the tone of your essay, and began writing. Do not forget to top your essay up with a catchy topic so that your entire hard work doesn't fall flat.

Published on Sep 03 2020

Gintaras is an experienced marketing professional who is always eager to explore the most up-to-date issues in data marketing. Having worked as an SEO manager at several companies, he's a valuable addition to the Whatagraph writers' pool.

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The Influence of Social Media: Bringing People Together

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Influence of Social Media

Social media has transformed our lives, connecting people worldwide and revolutionizing communication. This blog explores the positive impact of social media, particularly in the realm of social causes and fundraising. We’ll delve into how organizations like Transparent Hands are leveraging social media platforms to create awareness, engage the public, and raise funds for important medical treatments. Discover the Influence of social media and its ability to bring people together for a noble cause.

1. The Evolution of Social Media: Examine the profound changes social media has brought to our lives and the way we communicate. Reflect on the advancements made in the past decade and the global conversations facilitated by platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

2. Social Media as a Fundraising Tool: Explore the role of social media in the realm of not-for-profit organizations and social enterprises. Discuss how it can create awareness, engage the public, acquire donors, and build relationships. Highlight the importance of utilizing social media effectively to maximize fundraising efforts.

3. Transparent Hands: Empowering Surgical Treatment: Introduce Transparent Hands, a charitable organization dedicated to providing surgical treatment to underprivileged individuals in Pakistan. Discuss the critical need for better healthcare and the challenges faced by those who cannot afford it. Highlight Transparent Hands’ mission and their reliance on social media to raise funds and create awareness. Donate Online

4. Harnessing the Influence of Social Media: Transparent Hands leverages social media channels, such as Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube to spread awareness and engage with the public. Highlight their user-friendly web portal and the active campaigns featured on their social media platforms. Emphasize the importance of likes, shares, and inspiring others to contribute to the cause.

5. The Impact of Social Media: Demonstrate the significant impact social media has had on promoting and raising funds for surgical treatments through Transparent Hands. Discuss the recent technological feature introduced by Transparent Hands, enabling donations through hashtags on Facebook and Twitter. Encourage readers to use their social media accounts to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate.

Conclusion: Summarize the transformative Influence of social media in bringing people together for social causes. Emphasize the importance of organizations like Transparent Hands utilizing social media effectively to raise funds, create awareness, and inspire positive change. Encourage readers to make a difference by donating and motivating others to join the cause. Social media has the potential to transform lives and build a better world for those in need.

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Does Social Media Make Us More or Less Connected?

Is social media strengthening our communities, or is it actually harming our ability to connect in person? Students  discuss two readings about the pros and cons of social media engagement, including some research on this question. 

  • social media

To the Teacher

At its core, social media holds out the promise of connection. A key idea behind Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and other platforms is that we can create rich networks of friends, receive frequent updates from people in our lives, and build a sense of community.

On sites such as Facebook, it is common for someone to have hundreds of “friends.” Yet, in reality, the experience does not always live up to the hype. Despite this ever-present promise of community, many people feel isolated and alone. Although people may have hundreds or even thousands of online “friends,” they may have few actual people in real life that they can rely on. All of this raises the question, is social media strengthening our communities, or is spending time on our phones and computers actually harming our ability to connect in person?

This lesson consists of two readings. The first reading explores the experience of connection online, asking whether or not social media helps make us feel more connected to one another. The second reading examines the data regarding how social media affects our mental health, looking at studies of the possible positive and negative effects of social media usage, especially for young people. Questions for discussion follow each reading.  

Note:  This lesson is Part 1 of a series of lessons on social media.

  • Part 1:  Does Social Media Make Us More or Less Connected ?
  • Part 2: Social Media and the Future of Democracy
  • Part 3: Can We Protect Our Privacy on Social Media?

Social media

Ask students to share one word or reaction they have when they hear the phrase “social media.”

Alternatively, make a visual web of their reactions by writing the term “social media” in the center of the board, circling it, then asking students for their associations with the phrase. Write down students’ associations without comment in the space surrounding the circled phrase, and connect their words with a line to the center. Once responses have slowed, step back and look at the web. 

Ask students: What patterns do you see here? What does this web say about our reactions to social media?

Tell students that today we’ll read and discuss two short pieces about social media and its impact, both positive and negative.  

Reading One: Experiencing Connection, On and Off-Line  

At its core, social media holds out the promise of connection. A key idea behind Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and other platforms is that we can create rich networks of friends, receive frequent updates from people in our lives, and build a sense of community. On sites such as Facebook, it is not uncommon for someone to have hundreds of “friends.” Yet, in reality, the experience does not always live up to the hype. Despite this ever-present promise of community, many people feel isolated and alone. Although people may have hundreds or even thousands of online “friends,” they may have few actual people in real life that they can rely on.

All of this raises the question, is social media strengthening our communities, or is spending time on our phones and computers actually harming our ability to connect in person?

One commonly held view holds that spending too much time on social media is detrimental. Many influential people—ranging from Pope Francis, to U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, to actress and singer Selena Gomez—have warned that overuse of social media can be harmful and isolating. In a recent interview with Stephen Colbert, Michelle Obama stated , “We have to get off the phone and knock on doors and talk to each other face to face…. We can’t rely on the internet to tell us about the world.”

For reasons like these, people of all ages have begun limiting their time on social media and focusing instead on building relationships in real life. In a 2017 article, Teen Vogue’s Beauty and Health Director Jessica Matlin documented the increase in young people logging off. She writes about a student named Faith, 17, who moved from a Philadelphia suburb to a new school in New York City. Faith said that it was hard to make friends. She felt insecure about this, so she used her phone to share stories to make it seem to her friends back home that she was making lots of friends and having a great time. “In reality, I was struggling,” she said. The story goes on to tell Faith’s story since then:

 Now that [Faith has] found her own crew, she’s grown more skeptical about social media. She also doesn’t feel compelled to get it all on film. At a Coldplay show, she sang instead of Snapped (“I’d rather enjoy the music”), and sitting down to a recent dinner, she and her friends piled their phones in the middle of the table (“It made the night so much better”).... “Young adults are beginning to take a more mindful approach to social media,” says Jacqueline Nesi, a researcher at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill who studies teens and social media. “This may explain the rise in apps like SelfControl and Anti-Social.” (Both prevent you from falling into a Facebook hole.) And that no-phones-at-dinner policy? Nesi says we are likely to see it popping up on more tables…. Ananda, 17, had the kind of Insta-following that any start-up would kill for. Before long, it became a total chore. What started as a place to share vegan recipes and cute outfits quickly became her “brand,” something that demanded daily upkeep. Her fans constantly direct-messaged her with praise and invites to meet up. “It was really sweet,” she says. “At the same time, it was so time- and energy-consuming—it wasn’t how I want to build friendships.” As she started posting less, her following dropped. (“That gave me anxiety,” she says.) Finally, she just closed her account. “I do miss it, but I have time to spend with my real friends.” “Social media relationships aren’t real relationships,” says Faith. “It’s always weird when you see someone who follows you and you follow back, but you don’t say ‘hi’ to each other when you see them in real life.” [ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/why-young-adults-are-taking-a-more-mindful-approach-to-social-media ]  

Despite such testimonies to the benefits of taking breaks from social media, not everyone agrees that online community is inherently unhealthy—or that offline friendships should count as being a valuable part on one’s “real life,” while online connections are disregarded. For years, young people have maintained that social media can provide real connection. In a 2018 article for The Washington Post, Common Sense Media parenting editor Caroline Knorr offered five benefits of social media. She wrote:

For a few years, many teens have been saying that social media — despite its flaws — is mostly positive . And new research is shedding light on the good things that can happen when kids connect, share and learn online. As kids begin to use tools such as Instagram , Snapchat , Twitter and even YouTube in earnest, they’re learning the responsibility that comes with the power to broadcast to the world…. It lets them do good. Twitter, Facebook and other large social networks expose kids to important issues and people from all over the world. Kids realize they have a voice they didn’t have before and are doing everything from crowdfunding social justice projects to anonymously tweeting positive thoughts …. It strengthens friendships. Studies, including Common Sense Media’s “ Social Media, Social Life: How Teens View Their Digital Lives ” and the Pew Research Center’s “Teens, Technology and Friendships” show that social media helps teenagers make friends and keep them. It can offer a sense of belonging. While heavy social media use can isolate kids, a study conducted by Griffith University and the University of Queensland in Australia found that although American teens have fewer friends than their historical counterparts, they are less lonely than teens in past decades . They report feeling less isolated and have become more socially adept, partly because of an increase in technology use.... Online acceptance — whether a kid is interested in an unusual subject that isn’t considered cool or is grappling with sexual identity — can validate a marginalized child…. One example occurred on a Minecraft forum on Reddit when an entire online community used voice-conferencing software to talk a teenager out of committing suicide . [ https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/parenting/wp/2018/03/19/5-ways-social-media-can-be-good-for-teens/?noredirect=on&utm_term=.74d64c1a442a ]  

Such arguments suggest that social media use can have both positive and negative aspects. Whether we experience it as helpful or harmful has a lot to do with how we engage, who we relate with, and what boundaries we decide to set for ourselves in our daily lives. Instead of passively accepting the platforms as they are, we can be critical in how we engage, recognizing that if social media offers the promise of community, it is a community that we must create for ourselves.

For Discussion

  • How much of the material in this reading was new to you, and how much was already familiar? Do you have any questions about what you read?  
  • What are your reactions to Faith’s story about cutting back on social media and feeling closer to friends? Does her story resonate with you – or not?  
  • Have you ever agreed to stow your phones when you’re having a get-together with friends? If so, what effect did it have?  
  • If you use social media, do you take breaks from it? Why or why not?  
  • What are your thoughts about the five benefits of social media cited in the Washington Post? Do they resonate with you? Why or why not?  
  • What are some arguments that social media decreases meaningful connection? Have you experienced any of these trends in your community?  
  • What are some arguments that social increases connection and has positive benefits? Do these ring true in your experience?  
  • Do you see generational differences in how different people look at the appropriate use of social media platforms? How would you characterize how your views might differ from those of your parents or teachers?

Reading Two: The Research on Social Media and Mental Health  

Reports about people’s experiences on social media are often anecdotal. They rely on individual stories about how a given user might feel. But can we get a bigger picture take on social media’s overall effect? What does the research say about social media’s impact on our mental well-being?

In an article in the September 2017 issue of The Atlantic entitled “Has the Smartphone Destroyed a Generation?,” San Diego State psychology professor Jean Twenge examined some this research. Focusing most of her attention on the more negative impacts of social media on mental health, Twenge generated a media firestorm with her portrait of how social media increases our isolation. She wrote:

The arrival of the smartphone has radically changed every aspect of teenagers’ lives, from the nature of their social interactions to their mental health. These changes have affected young people in every corner of the nation and in every type of household. The trends appear among teens poor and rich; of every ethnic background; in cities, suburbs, and small towns. Where there are cell towers, there are teens living their lives on their smartphone…. Rates of teen depression and suicide have skyrocketed since 2011. It’s not an exaggeration to describe iGen as being on the brink of the worst mental-health crisis in decades. Much of this deterioration can be traced to their phones…. The Monitoring the Future survey, funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and designed to be nationally representative, has asked 12th-graders more than 1,000 questions every year since 1975 and queried eighth- and 10th-graders since 1991. The survey asks teens how happy they are and also how much of their leisure time they spend on various activities, including nonscreen activities such as in-person social interaction and exercise, and, in recent years, screen activities such as using social media, texting, and browsing the web. The results could not be clearer: Teens who spend more time than average on screen activities are more likely to be unhappy, and those who spend more time than average on nonscreen activities are more likely to be happy. There’s not a single exception. All screen activities are linked to less happiness, and all nonscreen activities are linked to more happiness. Eighth-graders who spend 10 or more hours a week on social media are 56 percent more likely to say they’re unhappy than those who devote less time to social media. Admittedly, 10 hours a week is a lot. But those who spend six to nine hours a week on social media are still 47 percent more likely to say they are unhappy than those who use social media even less. The opposite is true of in-person interactions. Those who spend an above-average amount of time with their friends in person are 20 percent less likely to say they’re unhappy than those who hang out for a below-average amount of time…. Teens who spend three hours a day or more on electronic devices are 35 percent more likely to have a risk factor for suicide, such as making a suicide plan. (That’s much more than the risk related to, say, watching TV.) [ https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2017/09/has-the-smartphone-destroyed-a-generation/534198/ ]  

Twenge’s article, shared by many concerned parents, prompted a wave of responses from other psychologists. Many noted that the research is more nuanced than the uproar around the inflammatory article made it seem. In a 2017 article for Psychology Today entitled “No, Smartphones are Not Destroying a Generation,” Assumption College psychology professor Sara Rose Cavanaugh questioned whether smartphones and social media were purely negative in their effects.

Emerging evidence indicates that like every other question psychologists can think to ask about human behavior, screen use and its association with psychological well-being varies based on a multitude of contextual and personal variables—for instance, how you use media, when you use it, and what else is going on in your life… [One study] by Andrew K. Przybylski and Netta Weinstein uses a careful design that takes into account these sorts of factors and concludes that "moderate use of digital technology is not intrinsically harmful and may be advantageous in a connected world." Nowhere is Twenge's bias more obvious to me than in some research that she actually does review but then casts aside as seemingly irrelevant to her thesis... In the introduction to the piece she notes that this generation has sharply lower rates of alcohol use, teen pregnancies, unprotected sex , smoking , and car accidents than previous generations. This is what a destroyed generation looks like?  Moreover, there is good reason to think that smartphones and social media may have positive effects as well as negative effects. Routinely feeling connected to your social peers could have beneficial effects.... For instance, teens can find other teens interested in the same social movements, connect with teens across the globe on interests like music and fashion, and feel embedded in a social network filled with meaning. [ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/once-more-feeling/201708/no-smartphones-are-not-destroying-generation ]  

Twenge herself acknowledges that social media may have contributed a decrease in some behaviors that have traditionally made parents and guardians anxious, writing that “Some generational changes are positive, some are negative, and many are both. More comfortable in their bedrooms than in a car or at a party, today’s teens are physically safer than teens have ever been. They’re markedly less likely to get into a car accident and, having less of a taste for alcohol than their predecessors, are less susceptible to drinking’s attendant ills.”

A final point to consider in the debate over social media and mental health is that the platforms themselves have agendas--since companies like Twitter, Snapchat, and Facebook make more money when people use them more, regardless of the impact on happiness or mental health. In a 2018 article for the BBC, investigative reporter Hilary Andersson argued that social media companies are deliberately addicting users to their products for financial gain.

"Behind every screen on your phone, there are generally like literally a thousand engineers that have worked on this thing to try to make it maximally addicting" [said former Mozilla and Jawbone employee Aza Raskin.] In 2006 Mr Raskin, a leading technology engineer himself, designed infinite scroll , one of the features of many apps that is now seen as highly habit forming. At the time, he was working for Humanized - a computer user-interface consultancy. Infinite scroll allows users to endlessly swipe down through content without clicking. "If you don't give your brain time to catch up with your impulses," Mr Raskin said, "you just keep scrolling." He said the innovation kept users looking at their phones far longer than necessary.  Mr Raskin said he had not set out to addict people and now felt guilty about it. But, he said, many designers were driven to create addictive app features by the business models of the big companies that employed them. "In order to get the next round of funding, in order to get your stock price up, the amount of time that people spend on your app has to go up," he said…."So, when you put that much pressure on that one number, you're going to start trying to invent new ways of getting people to stay hooked." "You have a business model designed to engage you and get you to basically suck as much time out of your life as possible and then selling that attention to advertisers." Facebook told the BBC that its products were designed "to bring people closer to their friends, family, and the things they care about.” It said that "at no stage does wanting something to be addictive factor into that process".... [Yet] last year Facebook's founding president, Sean Parker, said publicly that the company set out to consume as much user time as possible. He claimed it was "exploiting a vulnerability in human psychology." [ https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-44640959 ]  

Ultimately, promises of connection offered by social media platforms are sales pitches. But real community is not a product that people can buy. Whether or not we use technology in creating our own communities, we can be aware that the platforms we might choose to use are by no means neutral.

  • According to the article, what does research indicate about the impacts of social media on young people?  
  • Does the article reflect your own sense of social media’s impact?    
  • Some critics argued that the article entitled, “Has the Smartphone Destroyed a Generation?” was unduly sensationalist. What did you think?  
  • Do you think social media is partly to blame for rising rates of depression and anxiety among young people? Why or why not?  
  • What possible changes could be made in apps to make them less addicting?  
  • Are there any changes you would make in how social media platforms are structured?

Ask for volunteers to share one thing they like about social media, and one thing they think should change about social media.

Research assistance provided by John Bergen.

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How does social media bring people together.

Internet Social Media about 6 years ago || 10/24/2018 || 57.1 K View

We are living in an ear of technology. Technology has changed everything including our communication system and our lifestyle. It is now rapidly growing in the field of information and communication. As a result, hundreds of communication tools are being developed every year that help to reduce the communication gap between people.

essay on social media draws us together

Social media has become one of the most essential parts of communication. There is no doubt that social media is bringing people together. Even though there are a few negative points of using social media that cannot make us ignore the hundreds of positive benefits. Social media has become a tool of social interaction and bought us closer together as a community by increasing our communication with each other and reducing the gap between us and people who are far away. It has replaced our older communication tools such as letters, telephone etc. with the fastest chats, video chats, and calls.

Through social media now we can reconnect with old friends or classmates, even we can communicate with new people with similar thoughts and interest and can share our views. Using social media tool like Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp, Instagram, brings people closer when they can’t always physically see each other. Texting someone through Facebook or any other social media tools allow us to be in touch with anyone anywhere across the globe, at any point in time. We can always reach somebody and can make visual interact no matter how far they are from us. For a variety of reasons, social media bring people together. Mostly, it let us connect with those people, whom we lost contact over many years and also helps us to find out good job opportunities.

essay on social media draws us together

 We can see, read about, watch videos of, and understand through social media the cultures of people in any part of the world. When someone shares their feelings on social media, we don’t actually feel the distance. We feel and get time to response them. We can greet and wish anyone on their birthday, on New Year, at any festival, and we receive wishes as well. The information available brings us closer to people. Nowadays we can hear the news that people are being able to find their long-lost family, friends, relatives through the help of social media.

We can take an example when 7.9 magnitude earthquakes struck Nepal on 2015 Facebook safety check feature helps us to know how many of people were on the safe place and how many were on the “ affected area ”, and also allowed us to mark safe in that disaster. People from all over the world came to help and support us. The social media timelines were awash with the helping hands and charities that had reacted immediately and set up fundraising campaigns. Also, the twitter account had set up by the Nepalese Government, National Emergency Operation Center , which announced many pieces of information such as access to clean water and the relief that was being received from around the world. This account helps raise awareness of the huge support from the national and international community.

Therefore, social media unites billions of people and millions of organizations and individuals across the world.  It has become extremely popular because it allows people to connect in the online world to form a group, a forum and a community where ideas and information can be exchanged and the individual is given the opportunity to communicate freely without any geographical barrier. Thus, social media is useful for everything from keeping in touch with friends to dating, to research collaboration and political activism. The use of social media is rapidly spreading among different people and professionals, including librarians, lawyers, doctors, marketers, entrepreneurs, researchers etc. This is because social media has different applications that enable fast connection and networking among each and every people of the geographical location.

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essay on social media draws us together

Social media: Bringing us together or pulling us apart?

One of the great promises of social media is that it connects us with our friends and those closest to us. Using it, we can broadcast important events that take place in our lives, we can tell others what we’re doing at any and all times of the day, we can share pictures, we can re-establish friendships with those we’ve lost touch with, and we can stay in touch with those where distance separates us.

On the surface, it sounds great. By doing these things, social media should be bringing us together. It should be making us closer with our good friends, keeping us in touch with those far away, and reconnecting us with those we’ve lost touch with.

I would contend that the promise is not translating into reality. I would argue that social media isn’t having the effect of bringing us together but instead is pulling us apart.

Being “in the know” vs. Being oblivious

One of my favorite blogs, A Learning a Day , wrote a great piece on the value of being “in the know” versus being oblivious . As he describes it, being “in the know” means having all the news about what’s going on around us. Where that used to be managed by a few connectors in every community, now there are feeds that do that for us.

But as he points out, there is value in being oblivious. In his words, “…events matter little in the long run. And, a mind overwhelmed by absorbing and keeping track of events has little time in dwell in ideas.” More importantly, when we’re not “in the know” and always “up to date” on what’s going on around us, there is value in the time we spend with friends. Again, as he puts it:

Community gatherings become old-style fun again. And, besides, this path may just be comparison-free, mindful, and happy.

Increasing the value of time with others

I’m not on social media. Sure, it would keep me up to date on everyone’s events and activities, but what would I lose in the process? When I get together with friends, what would we talk about if I already know everything.

I value my time with others. It’s a chance to catch up on what’s happened, to share stories. I get to experience the emotion, see the reactions, and build a connection, a common bond of shared experience.

When we spend all of our time on social media, our lives can become like one of my favorite YouTube videos, “I Forgot My Phone” (embedded below). It’s a bit over the top for dramatic effect, but it’s not that far off-base. It shows how people act when they already know everything that’s happening with their friends. Instead of enjoying the moment and connection, we’re off on our phones looking for the next interesting thing since what’s right in front of our faces isn’t.

Less is more

When we rely on social media, we think we are “in the know” about what are friends are doing. We rely on status updates we share to keep us connected. Is this really a true reflection of what’s going on in our lives? And if we’ve already shared everything on social media, what’s left to talk about when we do get together with someone. Could it be the reason why we end up reaching for our phones, so we can find out if there’s something more interesting than what’s going on right in front of us?

Personally, I think we should be using social media less. Instead of relying on these virtual connections to maintain our friendships, we should be making the effort to really get to know our friends. Spend time together with them over lunch, grab a coffee, talk with them on the phone.

Social media does have a purpose, but that purpose shouldn’t be a replacement for spending our most valuable resource, our time, with those closest to us to connect, share, and build relationships. Less is often more, and in this case, less social media will result in more opportunities to bring us together, closer to those we cherish.

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Social Media: Bringing Us Together or Tearing Us Apart?

How it works

Social media is defined as “websites and applications that enable users to create and share content or to participate in social networking,” according to the Oxford Dictionary (1). Social media brings like-minded people together, thus allowing them to share common interests and advocate for worthy causes. On the other hand, social media can also lead to isolation and cyberbullying. Therefore, social media can either bring people together or tear them apart.

  • 1 Benefits of Social Media
  • 2 The Downsides of Social Media
  • 3.1 Developments in Moderating Content
  • 3.2 References

Benefits of Social Media

The general idea of social networks, such as Facebook, is to allow users to create profiles about themselves where they can share interests, photos, and even thoughts with their group of friends.

More recently, fan pages have become popular, where users can bond over TV shows, movies, books, and even celebrities they like or dislike. It is an interactive way of having relationships with anyone, from close friends and family to people all over the world who you have never met in person but who share similar interests. This (mostly) seamless interaction and connectivity bring awareness to prominent causes such as world hunger, poverty, and human rights.

Through social media, awareness campaigns, as well as fundraisers and petitions to amend laws, gain exposure from users that spread the news and keep the dialogue alive. A recent movement that has taken advantage of the Twitter platform and has gained momentum and maximum exposure is the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and violence. Prominent figures have also joined the conversation and showed their support for diverse causes by giving speeches, organizing marches, and performing fundraising concerts.

The Downsides of Social Media

Notwithstanding the benefits of social media, there are many downsides, too, especially when dealing with social isolation. Social isolation occurs in two ways; first, because online interaction through social media platforms is so appealing, face-to-face interaction of people has become almost nonexistent. Every interaction revolves around what is posted on networking sites such as Facebook and Instagram, thus making the old saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” more relevant now than ever. Furthermore, online interactions have moved from long e-mails to short text messages to a single caption accompanying a photograph.

The second way that social media has led to isolation is through cyberbullying, which is stronger and more pervasive than regular bullying. The migration of bullying from the real world into the digital one has proven disastrous since before; the actual bullying stopped as soon as the victim went home or escaped the bully. But the internet allows the bully to continue 24/7 attacks and even promotes a mob mentality in which others join in just for fun. Sometimes the bullies do not even know the person they are targeting; they simply have access to their social media accounts and feel the need to make their voices heard.

Because bullies can be anonymous, they don’t fear getting caught, so they launch a harsher attack than the one they would have perpetrated in person. For example, one person can comment negatively on a photo posted to social media, and almost instantly, there will be more people chiming in with their unsolicited negative opinions. There is no escape because even when you turn your computer off, on many occasions, this bullying extends toward the victim’s physical environment as well.

Measures to Balance Social Media’s Impact

How social media is used, by whom, and for what purpose plays a large role in determining the impact it will have on society. Since the world is so vast and diverse, it is hard to pinpoint exactly the direction social media is guiding us towards. To say definitively that social media leans more towards its utopian potential versus its dystopian potential is difficult because of the many factors one has to consider while making this determination. Factors that make social media great also make it unscrupulous.

For instance, the freedom that social media platforms offer for unlimited self-expression can easily take a turn for the worst when a seemingly innocent comment evolves into harassment. On the other hand, this same freedom for self-expression can turn a negative situation or experience into a support group or movement to prevent the incident from advancing further.

Developments in Moderating Content

There have been several measures put in place by developers in an attempt to balance the effects of social media on society. For example, privacy features allow users to control who gets access to their profiles; this aims to prevent people who have bad intentions the ability to target someone on their personal profile.

Another measure put in place to offset destructive behavior is filters and moderators, whose jobs are to look for and block content that is meant to cause harm. Lastly, people who constantly exhibit malicious behavior are blocked from access to social media sites, and their accounts are disabled. While these steps have been implemented with the best of intentions, they don’t always work to their full potential as people quickly look for workarounds. In an age where most people are well-versed in the use of technology and social media, it is easy to simply create another account and continue to use it for the wrong reasons. Ultimately, social media can be both beneficial and detrimental to society; there is no either.

  • Kaplan, A. M., & Haenlein, M. (2010). Users of the world, unite! The challenges and opportunities of Social Media. Business Horizons, 53(1), 59-68.
  • Boyd, D. M., & Ellison, N. B. (2007). Social network sites: Definition, history, and scholarship. Journal of Computer?Mediated Communication, 13(1), 210-230.
  • Smith, A. N., Fischer, E., & Yongjian, C. (2012). How does brand-related user-generated content differ across YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter? Journal of Interactive Marketing, 26(2), 102-113.
  • Tufekci, Z. (2017). Twitter and tear gas: The power and fragility of networked protest. Yale University Press.
  • Twenge, J. M., Joiner, T. E., Rogers, M. L., & Martin, G. N. (2018). Increases in depressive symptoms, suicide-related outcomes, and suicide rates among U.S. adolescents after 2010 and links to increased new media screen time. Clinical Psychological Science, 6(1), 3-17.

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Is Social Media Bringing US Closer Or Driving US Apart Essay Examples

Type of paper: Essay

Topic: Students , Communication , Workplace , Sociology , Internet , Company , Media , Social Media

Words: 1400

Published: 01/25/2020

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Nowadays, it is common to hear about the benefits of social media, as well as the arguments against social media. Some would note that social media influences the importance of physical interaction and learning, driving people apart due to the lack of feeling and emotion while socializing online. There are even cases wherein long relationships have drifted apart due to social media, and worst, even found themselves being cheated upon by their lover. However, despite all of these comments as to how social media destroys relationships, it is undeniable that social media is actually bringing people closer, transcending boundaries of both distance and time as people now have a medium to keep in touch, connect with people, and present additional benefits that is also received in regular socialization and relationships. Many experts, groups and even individuals would agree that social media has revolutionized the way people socialize, communicate and interact with people in all walks of life. Social media’s immediate impact could be seen in individuals as they could use social media to keep in touch with their love ones and friends, and keep up with the latest information, gossip or events across the globe or in their region.

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Notably, social media is now considered the new form of communication as people would no longer need to send snail mail and wait days for a reply. Social media platforms such as Skype, Facebook, and e-mail clients such as Gmail now provide means for people to interact with each other in real-time. Social media is also seen by many individuals as a means to socialize with others through games, or in basic networking, making the process more fun and enjoyable. This new means of socialization could be seen in social networking sites such as Facebook as people could invite more people or acquaintances into their own network and share information and communicate in real-time. Some people even use these networking sites and platforms as a means to connect with strangers who may have same interests or same networks as they do, allowing them to become closer to new sets of people from different countries. For the younger generation, they see social media not just a means to communicate with peers and family, but also a means to create social connections with others, building their relationships and personalities at the same time. It would be easier to create information sharing between friends and family without the fear of embarrassment and restraint. Ideas could be shared with one another through social media, and also expands one’s horizons over the people they meet online and create respect to people of different race and status .

Celebrities and politicians also turn to social media to mingle and be closer to their fans and supporters, sometimes even use social media as a means to call for support and assistance. While using social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook, celebrities and politicians could not only update and communicate with their love ones and friends but also reach out to their fans about their daily life, campaigns or projects. Fans worldwide can even use these social media sites to say hi to their idols and be familiar to another side of these people which is not seen on television. Several celebrities had made their mark in social media such as Oprah and Martha Stewart as they use Twitter to update their followers of their latest guests, issues for discussion, and even their favorite places to go and hang out. In some cases, celebrities would also use social media to call for their fans to support charitable institutions. In the case of politicians, aside from updating their followers regarding their lives, projects, and programs, they also see social media as a means to bring their ideals closer to the public and reach to a more wider demographic. In the 2008 Presidential Elections, for example, both President Barack Obama and Senator John McCain utilized social media to advertise their sorties, debates, and even campaigns to Americans around the globe. Social media also became their platform in acquiring information from their supporters as to common issues, and what their supporters wish to see in their campaigns or projects . When it comes to companies and recruitment agencies, social media enables them to become closer to job applicants as these applicants would no longer need to go personally to offices to check their job openings and apply. Through social media, companies and recruitment agencies could reach all types of employees in any level and demographic. They can easily discern the profile of applicants through their uploaded resumes in job search sites or in websites such as LinkedIn, and at the same time, build employment pools for possible job openings in the future. HR departments also see social media as a means to reach passive applicants or those people who is noted to have a talent and yet, cannot easily be located due to the influx of applications. In some companies such as Ernst & Young, Google, and the CIA, they utilize Facebook and YouTube to reach these types of applicants and explain through video what they need for the company . Aside from this, companies would also find it easier and efficient to utilize social media in hiring as they can open up jobs that would present no limitations to applicants, drawing them closer to the company. Both employees and employers could also utilize social media to create contacts and recommendations that could be beneficial for the company’s future . Schools and businesses also see social media as an excellent medium to bring people closer to them. In terms of schools, social media now becomes a platform to enable students and teachers to maintain communication lines to each other, as well as create more mediums of learning. Students could utilize social media to maintain communication to the school for employment options, alumni newsletters, and even a means to continue education with the school. In terms of educators, they can use social media as a means to reconnect with past and present students, as well as create a unique network of colleagues and students that could be useful for the future . Finally, for businesses, social media enables them to reach out to more audiences and customers, as well as reaching out to fellow entrepreneurs and companies. Since social media can transcend location and communication restrictions, businesses could carry out their shops and support their clients online . Without social media, it is likely that people would still find it difficult to socialize with their friends and relatives abroad due to the slow communication mediums available. It would also be difficult to keep them updated with the latest events and news as people would need to wait longer periods to receive a message. Some would even find it very difficult to mingle with other nationalities and races if there wasn’t an available medium to create such channels for communication. Celebrities, politicians, businesses and companies would also find it difficult to reach out to the public and create closer ties with them, especially in times of crisis and need or for new opportunities. With these sentiments in mind, it is undeniable that social media has changed how people connect and come closer to people all across the globe. Social media has redefined closeness in an extent there is no limit to meeting and interacting with others.

Works Cited

Dale, Nell and John Lewis. Computer Science Illuminated. Sudbury: Jones and Bartlett Learning, 2010. Print. O'Keeffe, Gwenn and Kathleen Clarke-Pearson. "The Impact of Social Media on Children, Adolescents and Families." Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics 127.4 (2011): 800-804. Print. Rutledge, Patrice-Anne. The Truth About Profiting from Social Networking. Upper Saddle River: FT Press, 2008. Print. Strathdee, Robert. Social exclusion and the remaking of social networks. Hants: Ashgate Publishing Limited, 2005. Print. Taprial, Varinder and Priya Kanwar. Understanding Social Media. London: Ventus Publishing, 2012. Print. Wankel, Charles, Matthew Marovich and Jurate Stanaityte. Cutting-Edge Social Media Approaches to Business Education: Teaching with LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Second Life, and Blogs (HC). Charlotte: Information Age Publishing, 2010. Print.

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Does social media unleash our worst impulses? | Matters of Fact

essay on social media draws us together

"Monsters from the id." 

That was the warning we got about social media, 65 years ago. The trolling, hatred, divisiveness, violence that now threatens our world was all foretold — hiding in plain sight in a nifty sci-fi film you might still remember. "Forbidden Planet." 1956.

Of course, back then, the internet didn't exist. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit, TikTok, Clubhouse, would have been scarcely imaginable — even to the imaginative minds behind that old-school space adventure (it still holds up quite well today).

But they had great foresight. They grasped just what our problem would be in 2021.

In the movie, a spaceship commander played by Leslie Nielsen — yes, the "Naked Gun" guy — lands on a barren planet, where once a great, extinct alien civilization had flourished.

Note the ominous word: Extinct.

More: Media is everywhere. 'Matters of Fact,' our new media column, will go where it goes

These beings, The Krell, had invented the ultimate technology — one that allowed the user's thoughts to materialize, instantaneously, on any part of the planet. A great idea. Someone half a world away is starving? Just think them a turkey dinner. Presto!

Problem is, it wasn't just conscious thoughts that materialized. It was sub-conscious thoughts. All the hate, anger, lust, and aggression that was lurking just beneath the surface of civilization now had instant, global free rein.

It all materialized as "monsters from the id" (in the movie, invisible bear-like creatures, outlined in electricity). The Krell, we are told, tore themselves to pieces in a single night. "After a million years of shining sanity, they could hardly have understood what power was destroying them," a character says. 

Force for good

Our Krell, in 2021, reside in Silicon Valley. And they, too, imagined that their awesome new technology would be a force for good.

"There is a huge need and a huge opportunity to get everyone in the world connected," Mark Zuckerberg has said. Facebook, he predicted, would "give everyone a voice and help transform society for the future."

True, to a point. The internet, most of us would agree, has been a positive thing — in some ways.

More: Fair and balanced press? When do newspapers cross the line? | Matters of Fact

More: The Record/NorthJersey.com launches new column 'Matters of Fact' by Jim Beckerman

More: What is reality? In a divided America, maybe philosophers can tell us

It's allowed us to reconnect with old friends. It's allowed us to make new ones at the other ends of the earth. It's helped us to get a date for Saturday night. It's given us access to unimaginable amounts of information. It has made movies, music, books, shopping, and — yes — pornography, available with a click or a tap. It's allowed us to play Candy Crush Saga.

But there has also been a darker side. 

It's allowed hate, anger, illogic, aggression, to pop up instantaneously — all over the planet.

It's allowed a Russian troll farm in Saint Petersburg to spread lies that impacted an election in the U.S. It's allowed rumors that used to be shared, one-on-one, over backyard clotheslines, to appear on a million Twitter feeds in an instant.

It's allowed bigots, who once existed in isolation, to find each other and form murderous mobs. It's allowed jihadists to organize, and terrorize. It's allowed people to say mean things, anonymously, to Taylor Swift. "Haters gonna hate," she said. The word "haters," as commonly used now, is a creation of social media.

It hasn't, so far, allowed hate to materialize, in physical form. Not literally. But it has allowed it to spread, instantaneously, with real-world results — as in the Jan. 6 mob violence in Washington, stoked by internet rumors.

Is social media a superspreader of chaos?  Is there something about the medium itself that rewards, encourages divisiveness — draws it out of us? If so, why?

It seems like something we'd better figure out — before we go the way of the Krell.

Penny for your thoughts

"Social media has given everyone who uses it a chance to voice their opinion, positive or negative — only it's magnified," said Mark Beal, co-author of "Engaging Gen Z," an assistant professor of public relations at Rutgers New Brunswick.

All social media activity isn't chaotic or mean, of course — any more than all drinks are alcoholic. But to many people, divisiveness is the hard stuff. They're thirsty for it. One of the most popular platforms of the last few years, Beal points out, is actually called Discord.

"The idea that there actually is a platform out there with a name like that, a popular platform, is almost ironic," Beal said.

In fairness, Discord — a chat app popular with gamers — is not especially discordant. Certainly, nothing like Parler, Stormfront, and other sites that have made anger a brand.

But whatever the platform, social media has built-in traits — unintended, no doubt — that lend themselves to disharmony.

It's anonymous. It's impulsive. It's addictive. It appeals to emotion. It oversimplifies. And it encourages us to double down on things we already believe.

Face in the crowd

The anonymity of an iPhone encourages people to say things they might not say face-to-face. It blunts the consequences. 

"Conversing in person at the water cooler, or at a town hall, you're probably going to be a bit more guarded," Beal said.

And social media is not only anonymous. It's instantaneous.

"Act in haste, repent at leisure," your mother used to say. Or to put it in the Freudian terms of "Forbidden Planet,"  our ids — our unfiltered impulses — are what Twitter and other apps encourage. That's the bias, built into the medium.

"What social media allows us to do is respond in the moment," said Elizabeth Birge, associate professor of communications, who teaches journalism at William Paterson University in Wayne.

"This is not a device that requires a thoughtful response. We're all thumbs. Tappy, tappy, tappy — and hit send."

Fight or flight

And what kind of things do we mindlessly tap into the void?

A cute picture of a sloth? A "go team" to our high school?  Perhaps.

But what we're more likely to post — or click on — is something arresting, alarming.

"People are more easily drawn to this kind of negative information," said   Mina Ahn, professor of social psychology at Bergen Community College in Paramus.  "Evolutionarily speaking, we want to look for danger signs.  We want to know, so we can survive."

"Doomscrolling" is one hobby we all took up in lockdown. Riot, chaos and catastrophe. Enemies in our midst, and conspiracies in our government. Please sir, we want some more.

"When we have feelings of distress or excitement, it releases dopamine," Ahn said. "It is truly an addiction."

Emotion is pretty basic. It's something we share with orangutans and lizards. And it doesn't help that some apps, like Twitter, are basic by design. Nuance, context, alternative viewpoints, can't be tweeted out in a few dozen characters. It's all short, sharp shocks.

"We see the memeification of these messages," said David Oh, associate professor of communication arts at Ramapo College in Mahwah. "They become simpler and simpler, and appeal primarily to what people already believe."

The emotional rush is what we like.  And whatever we like, social media will give us more of. That's how algorithms work. The more clicks, the more advertising we see — and the more of our personal information the advertisers get.

I second that emotion

If you click on a scary headline, a conspiracy theory, a snarky comment about Ariana Grande's singing, you are liable to get more scary headlines, more conspiracy theories, additional snarky comments about Ariana Grande's ex-boyfriends and terrible taste in clothes. That's how you disappear down the rabbit hole.

"It's not just positive things, like puppies or music," Beal said. "Negative things are even more amplified."

Amplify them enough, and you get  the Jan. 6 riots in Washington — which resulted in 5 deaths.

To the extent that social media has cut us off  — by our own choice — from a diversity of thoughts, people and opinions, and instead encourages us to double down on our most primitive beliefs, it has made us not a more connected, but a more divided, planet. Not a world community, Oh said. Rather, a series of gated communities.

"The algorithms are the gates," he said. "Any time you talk about a community, people think of it in very positive, inclusive ways. But communities can also create boundaries and exclusion."

Divided we fall

Social media seems to thrive at the two extremes of the pH scale. On one end, the alkali of lowest common denominator: rainbows, kitties, shout-outs to Beyoncé. At the other end, the acid of hostility: to hell with Biden, to hell with Trump, Republicans are fascists, Democrats are baby snatchers.

At one extreme, the least offense to the greatest number. Result: clicks.

At the other extreme, divisive content that many will hate, but others will like intensely. Result: clicks.

It will be seen that our social media landscape mirrors our political landscape.

Politicians like Joe Biden and Mitt Romney are broadcasters — the greatest appeal to the greatest number. Politicians like Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders are narrowcasters — they appeal to a hugely loyal, highly targeted audience. Not to compare them in terms of virtue, or aptitude — it's just a question of strategy.

Whether our politics has been shaped by social media, or vice-versa, is a chicken-or-egg riddle that Oh won't presume to guess at. But likely, they have something to do with each other. "Our political and media environments have become mutually reinforcing," he said.

So now what? If social media is really setting us at each other's throats, what's to be done?

Education, to start with, Birge said. Particularly in terms of media literacy. People need to learn how they're being manipulated. People need to learn how to keep a check on their worst impulses — instead of letting their ids fly around the planet at the touch of a keyboard.

"Not just adults, but children," she said. "News media and media literacy needs to be included in elementary schools, middle schools, high schools."

In one respect. "Forbidden Planet" got it wrong.  It was a million times too optimistic. "About a million years from now the human race will have crawled up to where the Krell stood, in their great moment of triumph and tragedy," Leslie Nielsen intones at the film's close.

Alas no. Here we are.

And here, lurking somewhere out in cyberspace, are the Monsters from the id. Monsters which — as the movie points out — are really us.

Jim Beckerman is an entertainment and culture reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to his insightful reports about how you spend your leisure time, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email:  [email protected]  

Twitter:  @jimbeckerman1  

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    Published: 7:10pm, 19 Nov, 2018. Social media platforms have a bad rep for being a place where bullying and fake news occurs. But, although these things seem to thrive online, they existed long ...

  22. Essay.docx

    Social media simultaneously draws us together and pulls us apart. Does social media do more harm than good? YES As social media have become a primary mode of expression and communication for large parts of the world's population, social media platforms have also become vulnerable to less desirable actions.These include using social media for information warfare, recruiting and radicalizing ...