In 2012, social media was bigger than it ever was before. With the incarnation of Snapchat, Facebook being at its peak, and Twitter coming into the scene as a mainstream form of media, people did not know if it could ever get much bigger. These apps allowed people to get inside looks at others lives, spread news at the tap of a screen, but also hide behind their phones and their laptops. Everyday is a new peak of innovation in social media. 2018 is now the pinnacle.
The best parts about social media can also be the biggest reasons why some hate it. It causes a bunch of strife through being able to share opinions, people can pretend to be completely different than they actually are, and overall many people on social media lack basic self control. It is easier to say something on social media than face to face because a person can't see what the other is feeling over a screen. It is much easier to be less empathetic through social media than in person.
Many argue that social media numbs people to real life interactions. While many are so focused on their phones and apps, they do not take the time to explore and appreciate what is in front of us. Others argue that because it is so accessible and easy to talk to others over a phone, talking to people in person is somewhat of a lost art. This can be true. Maybe not with the current generation that, but the generation to follow can be so caught up in screens that they never learn how to efficiently communicate to others face to face. This is a great worry to many that social media can very well be ruining generations to follow.
A time where social media was used in a beautifully positive way, was in 2012 during Superstorm Sandy. Social media was a main player in raising awareness, and ultimately funds of relief efforts to those impacted by the storm. According to bufferapp.com, during this storm, ten thousand pictures with the hashtag "sandy" were uploaded per second, many with geotagged locations.
Social media is a great tool, like anything, in moderation. It should not be used 24/7. It can should be used as an effective tool to spread news and to communicate with others, but should never be used as a valid replacement for in-person communication. It revolutionized communication, but it can also be hurtful to how we communicate. The tempting addiction is something that many have fell victim of so far, and it will only continue to happen as social media grows more accessible to a wider audience and gains a higher platform. It will not slow down anytime soon. Social media truly is a double edged sword, so be careful where you grab it.
