The ugly side of social media

[shmn]

Excellent article in The New York Times about the perils of social media and how it has ruined some people's lives. The reader's comments also contain excellent material (the NYT has a top-notch, moderated comment section which keeps moronic trolls out...a fine of example of how comments from the general public can work).

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/15/m...tViewed&version=Full&src=mv&WT.nav=MostViewed

 

[paulbates]

That's an interesting reminder that most social (media) problems are self induced. This is one of the memes I've seen that I try to hold to, but I still have some work to do:

Is what you're about to say:

• True?
• Helpful?
• Inspire confidence or Insightful?
• Necessary?
• Kind?

 

[shmn]

That's an interesting reminder that most social (media) problems are self induced.

That's true to a certain extent. But I think the point of the article was to point out that excessive retribution for some jokes or comments taken out of context was ruining people's lives. And what about the guy who made a joke to his friend but was photographed and then ridiculed on social media by an anonymous bystander only to lose his job?

I see no benefit in participating in social media but those that do and make an offhand remark only to have their lives ruined...is that fair? Who hasn't put their foot in their mouths? I can still taste toe-jam.

Not making judgments here...but this article is a good example of there being more to a story than what appears on the surface.

 

[mikedt]

Can anyone repeat or quote what the article says please, because NYTimes site asking me to register to view the story.

 

[shmn]

Right click on the link and open it in an incognito window and you should be able to see it. Usually they allow you a couple of free articles a month.

 

[zuben el genub]

I read that last week.
I find this interesting:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/02/10/facebook-insecurity_n_6652128.html (There's plenty from other sources)

Do you suppose that most people jump on the bandwagon to get likes, feel like part of the crowd or are they really upset?

When I read the original post, I thought she was making a funny, maybe in bad taste, but a funny none the less.

 

[mikedt]

Right click on the link and open it in an incognito window and you should be able to see it. Usually they allow you a couple of free articles a month.

Tried that, still getting the paywall thing. I'm using a VPN, otherwise the NYTimes is blocked.

 

[zuben el genub]

Check your inbox.

It was posted on "Daily Rotation" without paywall.

 

[mikedt]

I've read the article now. So no need to post it for me.