We are all members of this internet generation. Internet has undoubtedly made our lives easier but when it comes to social media or social media sites, then the question arises — are they really helping us?
Social sites were apparently started to make the already social animal, that is man, more social. This piece does not intend to belittle internet or social media, for everything has its pros and cons. This article can be seen as an attempt to put forward a few of the cons associated with social media.
The question that disturbs me is — am I the only one to sense that the world of social media is taking us away from reality? So powerful is the virtual world that this superficial image has become a priority and in some cases surpasses our near and dear ones. Today what do we see — a world full of crazy social media addicts lined up to get their daily dose of opium. When did it become so important to share every personal detail on social media sites?
Social media sites were originally introduced to connect with near and dear ones and those who matter.
Social addicts demand attention and can go to any length to get it. The addiction has taken a toll on personal relations. Nowadays people believe in expressing themselves through social media but a phone call or a personal message can be such a relief. Relations are nowadays defined by social media. Even before the person concerned, feelings have to be promoted. Basic human emotions sound like business, promoting them and yes here it is, selling like hot cakes.
Photos play a key role on social media. The number of people appreciating photos uploaded by strangers and people who you may not even meet in this life is important. After all one has an image to maintain! Everyone is just too conscious that his/her picture needs to be perfect. With the new photo editing applications available in the market this has become really easy to look all pretty and perfect. A better version just for some likes and comments. People are turning into products. Improved ones are with high value.
This is also a medium to vent out anger. But the curious case is a particular sentence/ remark conveying negativity or abusive words is encouraged by “likes” and comments. Even for expressing as basic an emotion as gratitude we take the help of social platform.
Observations on social media can say a a lot about people. I have come across some who boast of bonds they share with their parents or relatives on social media but in reality are shallow self-centered beings whose thirst for attention can only be quenched through likes and comments.
It’s high time that people stop flaunting their fabulous lives on social media and start being real. Appreciate, love and care what you have and all that is there in the real world. Promoting one’s feelings and emotions on social media is not going to help nor strengthen the bonds. Let’s stop faking and hold on to what is true. Many may take this as an attack on their social lives but let us face it, this is what it has come down to as they say truth is always bitter. Wake up people!
(Contributed by Surmita Choudhury)
