The Social Dilemma
We are flooded in an ocean of information that we can easily access. Yet, are our brains sufficiently evolved to sort through, or absorb this flood of information? No, it have not yet. Hence, you and me need to choose WHAT information that we are exposed to, given that there is just such an overwhelming amount out there. The technology not only connects us, but it also Controls – Divides – Manipulates – Monetizes and POLARIZES us.
As a matter of fact, that’s actually the main gist and a message of a new documentary The Social Dilemma. The film looks the myriad ways human mind are twisted by social media platforms. This film was for me is a wake up call for the world to get detoxed.
It’s true that with social media and smart devices we have virtually unlimited access to people. Hence, given the choices that we have, – people gravitate to those similar to themselves – be it one’s political beliefs, music, hobbies, religion etc. That’s ok.
How does social media divides us?
If you follow my work you may know that I’m using every opportunity to raise awareness about my concerns about the impacts of social media, video games, and other hi tech technologies on both, children and adults for many years have on all of us .
Despite my familiarity with the ideas presented in the said film, I must admit that it was still shocking. Frankly speaking quite terrifying. Hence, in my view it would be really important, not to say mandatory, viewing this documentary for all humans.
I know that we are all in the midst of a global pandemic, and that there are other ”more important” issues to deal with. Nevertheless, this issue is too important for me, no matter how bad or an inappropriate the timing might be. Precisely, the timing is very relevant, you know why? Firstly, because the polarization and divisiveness that has come to characterize our social and political discourse today is a direct result of social media algorithms that were originally designed to increase profits from advertising, but have had numerous unintended consequences.
Be conscious. Be aware
Secondly, whether you are aware of it or not, we’re often unwitting subjects of a huge and fairly unregulated experiment, being performed by technology companies that do not have our best interests at heart. Keep in mind that you and me aren’t just their customers. We are primarily their “users,” whose attention they sell to the highest bidder.
I truly believe that we are at an inflection point, and the very survival of our democratic institutions and our very society is at stake. Therefore, I would really like to urge you to watch documentary in question. Furthermore, if you are a parent and your kids are old enough, say above 8 years old – though you’ll have to use your judgment here, I’d recommend you watch it with them and discuss it afterwards. This is so critical information that every human being on the planet needs to be aware of and of course, take action accordingly.
