Opinion

An answer for Adam: how can we make social media nice?

Adam FerrierIn a feature that first appeared in Encore, Adam Ferrier asks what can be done about the dark side of social media.

I hate social media. Most of the heavy weight proponents of social media do nothing but reinforce that those who love it are self-obsessed, angry, humourless and desperately looking for friends, while making enemies. Social media creates (and fosters) a culture of bullying.

Social media is a like a big brother patrolling the streets, and making sure no one steps out of line. Many studies show the more time people spend on social media vs. ‘fleshy’ interactions the unhappier and socially disconnected they become. Further, it promotes narcissism and personal image curation. In short I (and others) think social media is largely anti-social media. However, supporters of social media will speak to the fact that it gives the powerless a voice. Anyone can start a blog. Anyone can comment anonymously. And when we see mass injustice, social media can galvanise a crowd and create genuine social change.

Perhaps this week’s question is overly simplistic, but I’ll ask it anyway. What should be done to make social media nicer?

Adam Ferrier is a consumer psychologist and the founder of Naked Communications.
Encore Issue 30This first appeared in the weekly edition of Encore available for iPad and Android tablets. Visit encore.com.au for a preview of the app or click below to download.

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