Longing for simplicity: rethinking social media

Was “everything better back in the day” with social media?

The desire for a life without social media may seem like an escape from the modern world to some, but it is an expression of a deeper dissatisfaction with today's digital landscape. Social media, once hailed as a revolutionary tool that connects people across distances, is now at the center of a growing debate about its role in our lives. While the platforms have undoubtedly revolutionized the way we communicate, they also bring with them a flood of challenges that call into question the original promise of a unified digital community.

Social media is changing

The beginnings of Facebook and other social networks were characterized by a kind of innocence and the promise of bringing the world closer together. Users enjoyed rekindling old acquaintances and making new friends through shared interests. These platforms provided spaces in which communities could be formed and ideas freely exchanged. They were places of discovery and sharing, where the joy of shared experiences was the main focus.

But over time and the exponential growth in user numbers, the picture began to change. Increasing commercialization, the emergence of algorithms that filter content based on addictiveness rather than social value, and anonymity that encourages hostile behavior have undermined the original promise of social media. The platforms that once served as tools of connection morphed into sources of discomfort and disruption for many. The overload of information, the constant comparison with the seemingly perfect lives of others and the confrontation with misinformation, manipulation, negative comments and hate speech have made social media a source of dissatisfaction. Instead of connection and understanding, stress, tension and hostility seem to thrive.

Once celebrated for its ability to bring people together, social media is now suspected of doing the exact opposite: isolating individuals in echo chambers, fostering misunderstandings and exacerbating societal divisions.

Looking for authentic relationships

Despite the pervasive frustration, many users highlight the positive aspects of social media: the opportunity to stay in touch with dear friends and be part of groups that offer real added value. These islands of positivity in the digital world are a testament to what social media can achieve when free from negativity and trolling. They show that the need for real, authentic connections is still strong.

To “reform” these digital community spaces requires a collective effort by users, developers and/or platform operators to rethink and redesign the mechanisms that led to the current situation. A return to a culture that emphasizes authenticity, positive interactions and true social value could be the key. A possible solution lies in promoting smaller, moderated communities that provide a safe space for positive interactions. They could be a reminder that the original promise of social media – strengthening human connections – is still achievable. Additionally, new algorithms that prioritize the value of content over its potential virality could help improve the quality of the information that reaches us.

questions and answers

Question 1: Is life even imaginable without social media?
Answer 1: A life without social media is possible, but requires conscious decisions and the search for alternative forms of communication.

Question 2: What is the key to healthier social media use?
Answer 2: The key is self-regulation, conscious selection of the platforms and content used, and building supportive digital communities.

Question 3: Are social media fundamentally harmful?
Answer 3: No, social media also offers many opportunities for positive experiences and, if used correctly, can contribute to personal and social enrichment.

Question 4: Are there successful examples of positive use of social media?
Answer 4: Yes, many nonprofits and activist groups use social media effectively to raise awareness and mobilize support for their causes.

Question 5: How can you protect yourself from the negative effects of social media?
Answer 5: Through conscious consumption, use of privacy settings and participation in or formation of positive, supportive communities.

Conclusion

The challenge we face in the digital age is no small one: How can we reform social media so that it returns to what it once promised - building bridges between people that create connections across all borders? It's about finding a middle ground between the digital and real worlds that allows us to take advantage of the benefits of technology without being overwhelmed by its drawbacks. A return to the core values ​​of authenticity, community and positive exchange is necessary.

It is up to all of us to shape our digital spaces through conscious use and critical reflection. We must remember that there are people behind every screen and focus on what connects us, not what divides us.

We invite you to sign up for the Mimikama newsletter and find out about our online lectures and workshops .

You might also be interested in:
Social media like X: Poison for the soul?
Fake news as a business model: Influencers suspected of
being “risky”: Young people fight against fake news on TikTok