Everything in life is a double edged sword. – Anita Dobson
First and foremost, I would like to say that I am an avid social media user, I would even love to work in social media marketing after college. However, I have to admit that sometimes I wonder if social media really does more harm than good. No matter how many times we are taught to use social media “responsibly,” does anybody really know what that means when they are a very impressionable tween or teenager?Â
The first double-edged sword that social media presents is its function. Many of its defenders say that it helps us stay connected, which is very true; were it not for Instagram and TikTok, I would have never found out about the details that mainstream media doesn’t show. For example, what the genocide in Gaza looks like on the ground or the recent devastation of the Appalachia after Hurricane Helene last September. Of course, in a way it helps users avoid FOMO, because through social media users can engage in discussions, plan events, and stay in the know without needing to leave their home. It also allows you to connect professionally through apps such as LinkedIn. Furthermore, I believe that everyone at some point in their life must experience being in a fandom; DracoTok single-handedly kept me entertained during many weeks of quarantine. Additionally, this tool serves as a much cheaper option for marketing and advertising.Â
On the other hand, I have to admit that social media is very saturated with contradicting information, influencers driving over consumption, and excessive content that encourages constant connection to others’ lives––sometimes at the expense of their own. This and more aspects result in users feeling the need to compare themselves to what they see online, because even though we internally know people only post the highlights of their life, we become envious and obsessed with either having other people’s bodies, money, and lifestyles, many of which are simply not attainable without years of work that people want to obviate to achieve immediate results.
Social media has also revolutionized the relationship between celebrities, their fans, and the process of achieving fame. By providing direct access to stars through real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and personal posts, social media fosters a sense of connection, making fans feel like they know celebrities personally. Social media has transformed celebrity culture, democratizing fame by allowing individuals to build their own platforms and connect directly with audiences, bypassing traditional gatekeepers like film, music, or TV industries. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow everyday people and niche creators to amass large audiences, sometimes going viral overnight. This has blurred the lines between traditional celebrities and influencers, making fame more fluid and driven by digital engagement. This has also fostered one-sided relationships from the fans perspective. While these parasocial connections can offer comfort or inspiration, they also pose dangers. Some followers have developed unhealthy emotional attachments, leading to unrealistic expectations or obsessive behavior. This blurs boundaries between public and private lives, creating potential for stalking, harassment, or emotional distress when the perceived intimacy is not reciprocated. Celebrities, in turn, face pressures to constantly engage and maintain their public persona, which can lead to burnout or exploitation.
Social media has provided countless opportunities for self-expression, allowing users to share their thoughts, talents, and experiences with the world. Artists, writers, and creators can showcase their work to a global audience without needing traditional gatekeepers. This democratization of content creation has empowered individuals to build platforms and connect with like-minded communities. However, with increased visibility comes the risk of exposure to negative feedback, trolling, and cyberbullying. The anonymity of the internet often emboldens users to engage in harmful behaviors, leading to emotional distress for those targeted. For many, the thrill of sharing creative content is tempered by the fear of criticism or harassment from online bullies.
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Social media has revolutionized how we share our lives, making it easy for people to broadcast personal milestones, daily routines, and significant events with friends, family, and even strangers. This sharing fosters a sense of community, allowing users to connect over shared experiences, whether it’s celebrating a graduation, documenting a fitness journey, or simply sharing a meal. It can make people feel seen and understood, reinforcing bonds and creating networks of support. However, the desire to share comes with the inherent risk of losing privacy. By posting personal moments online, users open themselves up to scrutiny, judgment, and, at times, unwanted attention. The more people share, the more they risk exposing sensitive details that could be misused, whether it’s location data, personal relationships, or financial information. Celebrities face this lack of privacy on a grander scale, but everyday users are also vulnerable to breaches of personal boundaries, creating a delicate balance between connection and exposure.
Social media is an undeniably powerful tool that has transformed the way we connect, communicate, and express ourselves. While I remain an avid user and supporter of its potential, it’s important to acknowledge these risks and strive for a healthier balance. In the end, using social media responsibly means being mindful of its impact on our mental well-being, how we engage with others, and how much of our lives we choose to share.