On Social Media

I have been thinking a great deal lately about social media and the impact it is having on my life and mental health. When I first began using social media sites, they represented a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and stay in touch with things going on in their lives (especially those who lived far away). Facebook and Twitter became valuable sources of news from around the world as well. I still use social media for these purposes.

Social media provides an easy way for us to connect and have meaningful discussions with people who share common interests. We are able to expand our opportunities to learn and engage with others. Friends will recommend films or musicians I should experience. I find myself inspired to read a book, to attend a local arts presentation, or to learn more about a particular issue. I often get good recommendations for services I need. Social media remains an incredibly valuable and useful tool.

However, I no longer believe that social media is useful for some kinds of advocacy. If I want to advocate for someone to be punished, held accountable, or shamed, then social media is a powerful and effective tool. If I want to simply create awareness of an issue - which I would call neutral advocacy - I can post articles with ease in hopes of making an impact. If I feel like picking a fight, social media can certainly help. If I am looking to actually move the needle on an issue or policy though - to provoke thoughtful discourse, to show my support, or to engage in meaningful dialogue with someone who disagrees with me - social media seems to be rather ineffective.

I am convinced that for me to meaningfully advocate for any issue I feel strongly about, the best tools I have available are my physical presence, my wallet, and my physical voice. The most productive dialogues I have happen over a cup of coffee or tea. When I am face to face, people are harder to dismiss - more difficult to silence. It is also tougher to turn them into a straw man that I can kick with impunity. I want to invest more time and energy in seeing people as they are and where they are. It takes more effort on my part - I have to put myself out into the world and figure out how to put myself in new surroundings - but it is almost always worth the work.

To change the world, I have to be in the world. I intend to be out there, connecting with people. If you would like to join me for a cup and a conversation - reach out and let me know. Social media can help with that part.