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Monday, September 7, 2015
One false word
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As I have become more involved with social media over the past few months, I have noticed how easy it is to offend others. On Twitter, I follow several famous people such as Taylor Swift, and Maggie Stiefvater. They seem to step in to controversy every time they tweet. People are eager to pass judgement on each tweet, looking for offense. I have even been flamed by some white supremacists for liking a tweet on social justice. Even on a small scale (as in my case), it is extremely upsetting. I can't imagine how someone with thousands of haters could handle all that negativity.
The problem with tweeting (and writing in general) is that things such as tone of voice, humor, sarcasm, and all the other subtleties of speech cannot easily be conveyed through reading. Misunderstandings will inevitably happen. "Oh", you say, "I knew exactly what that person really meant".
But did you?
I may be naive to say this, but I am making a plea: When you see a tweet or post you think is offensive, take a breath before responding. Will your retort help the situation? Is it kind? Will you change the person's mind? Or are you going to haul off on someone to make yourself feel better?
I know that it may feel good to give your two cents and reply to what you think is an obnoxious tweet or post. But what will this really add to the conversation?
I have a lot of friends on Facebook. Many are people I knew in high school and I am happy that there is a way to keep in touch with them. But as a new Presidential campaign heats up, I dread even going online. Much to my chagrin, many of my Facebook friend's views are on the opposite end of the idealogical spectrum from my own. Very often they write or like posts that make me cringe. But I need to remember that it is NEVER a good idea to get into a cyber-fight over ideology. I value my friends and respect that they may have different opinions from me. Happily, most of these people are also respectful of my views and don't attack me either.
And it is perfectly acceptable to take a break from social media when the atmosphere becomes too toxic. I would rather step back, than get involved in depressing arguments with my friends.
What do you think? Am I a spineless wimp for not being vocal and standing up for my beliefs? Or am I practicing diplomacy? I would love to hear your (respectful) opinions. What do you do in these situations?
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I don’t think you’re spineless for not standing up for your beliefs on the Internet. There is so much drama on Facebook and Twitter. We don’t need more. Arguing won’t change anybody’s mind, so I think it’s best to “agree to disagree” and not start more pointless drama. The best way to stand up for your beliefs is to go to the election polls and vote on the issues you care about. That way, you’re actually making a difference and not just arguing with strangers on the Internet.
ReplyDeleteAj @ Read All The Things!
So true! It is way too easy to get into a fight on twitter and Facebook! Thanks for sharing your opinion.
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