Photo by Rodion Kutsaiev on Unsplash
Originally posted 3/29/2023
Years ago, I was fascinated with social media. I used Facebook and Twitter to contact my family, friends, and colleagues. In the last several years, social media has been a decent communication tool during the pandemic and some catastrophes. I loved TikTok because I loved watching videos of funny animals, babies, and some people’s creativity. Today, I no longer endure social media. I do not blame Facebook, Twitter, or even TikTok. I have to admit, Twitter, now owned by some rich jerk, has no idea what he is doing and created a series of headaches for users. I am tired of users abusing social media because they do not post responsibly.
Technology such as computers, social media, and AI do NOT create turmoil, problems, injuries, or even deaths. They all require one thing: human interface. People or users are the ones that use technology. Social media is so badly abused by people who do not stop to think, look at both sides of issues, and shed inappropriate statements and words. I do not deny the difference between victimology and fatality, but I do not blame social media. Users need to be held responsible. Sure, there must be age restrictions, guards for minors, and other forms of protection. Parents must be proactive to ensure their children are safe from harmful posts and harm. Finally, there needs to be more privacy protection which I admit is in the social media company. The rest is up to users to be more responsible. Stop blaming Facebook, Instagram, TickTock, and social media companies. Work with them. The lawsuits must stop because it is a lousy way to make money. We need to be partners. Lastly, do not take away people’s rights to use these tools. Let adults make their own choices.
People, we need to remember that no one owns the Internet. Therefore, banning companies from using the Internet is not going to happen. We need to be realistic. Since there are many privacy and safety concerns, it would be prudent for Apple, Microsoft, and ABC Company (owners of Google and Android) to help provide more robust protection tools in the operating systems and browsers to protect minors. The more significant part of all of this, everyone who uses social media needs to be responsible: users need to research both sides of the issue – there are always two or more sides to every issue and story. After reviewing different sides and angles, weigh your thoughts and respond or post your point. Sometimes people read things and must “bite their tongues” before responding. Stop! Breath! Slow down. Pick your battles. Everyone needs to be responsible and be held for their actions. Not protecting the corporates. I am concerned about users…the people.
All of this said, I am closing out my social media accounts. I will go back to my email and texting. Recently, my Facebook account was hacked by someone who was bored and decided to be funny. I know this is not the solution. I am in control. Call me old-fashion, but I am returning to the blog, and you are more than welcome to read it. My stress over social media is not worth it anymore. I feel people do not listen, and they just put people down. I do not need it, and I do not have to put up with it.
Tech & Ed Coach 