Use Judiciously

The article on breaking up of big-tech is very insightful and I agree with the author that a balanced approach is the need of the hour, not a slugfest (“This is what the democrats get wrong on big-tech solutions,” Dec.9, Gulf Today).

The narrative brings to the fore a valid argument that it may not be addiction but passion which drives people to the internet. It cited a survey of internet users which found that approximately 80 million — 38.15% — of US adults use the Internet to pursue hobbies and passion projects.

Of course that is not a sizeable chunk, but when a social platform is used for gains such as promoting ones interests, it is a good thing. Many businesses have prospered solely because of the reach provided by social media. As such, social media has been informative in the masses finding such businesses and the businesses in turn finding their clients. The presence of global publications on social media has also helped millions stayed informed. Which goes to show that social media is not all that bad. Of course one should be prudent too. When it comes to being prudent, Facebook could be an ideal platform for a test. It is clear that people are members of the social platform to be virtually connected with other members. And for the majority, the sole reason they are there is to get “acquainted” with the lives of their Facebook friends.

But getting acquainted has its perils too, especially when the user is hunting for validation. When the food of which I posted a pic on Facebook starts tasting better with each ‘like’ that the picture gets, I need to know that it’s time to shut the laptop and go offline. But no one can deny that Facebook is a great medium to stay virtually connected with friends and family. Finally it all depends on us to use it wisely.

Brooke Shulton — By email