Slant
It means "a peculiar or personal point of view, attitude, or opinion".
While I have reservations about social media, I can appreciate certain aspects of it. I enjoy seeing photos, hearing about trips, and witnessing moments of celebration, happiness, and positive energy that people express on these platforms. I also acknowledge that it serves as a convenient way to stay connected with my social circle.
However, it's important to recognize the drawbacks. The constant need for instant gratification provided by social media can detract from fully experiencing and embracing the present moment. It's disheartening to see people at clubs who no longer engage in dancing or have meaningful conversations with those around them.
Moreover, the ease with which negativity can spread on these platforms is concerning. It is not uncommon to witness the rampant spread of misinformation, driven by the anonymity that social media provides. Behind the veil of anonymity, some individuals feel emboldened to unleash their worst impulses, spreading hate and toxicity. Additionally, the rise of false idols that become representations of perfection can distort reality and erode genuine human connections. While these aspects are disheartening, it is important to approach them with a discerning eye and a commitment to fostering a more authentic and beneficial environment.
It's a fact that when it comes to social media companies, their primary goal is to keep users engaged for profit rather than fostering genuine communication. They have succeeded in achieving this objective. And they also bear responsibility for creating a distorted and problematic online space.
However, I'm not a pessimist. In fact, I find myself aligned with the beliefs of Orkut who wrote:
“Our online tools should serve us, not divide us. They should protect our data, not sell it. They should give us hope, not fear and anxiety. The best social network is the one that enriches your life but that doesn’t manipulate it.”
My "personal point of view" is the reason I choose to keep social media at the very minimum usage. I find more fulfillment in expressing myself through other means that may reach a select few, fostering deeper connections and meaningful interactions.
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