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Is social media creating a culture of narcissism and self-absorption?

Hildegarde Danielian

As a user of various social media platforms, I believe that social media is not creating a culture of narcissism and self-absorption, but rather amplifying pre-existing tendencies in individuals. Narcissism and self-absorption have always existed in society, but the advent of social media has given individuals the ability to showcase their lives to a global audience. The allure of social media lies in the ability to present oneself in a curated and idealistic manner, thus prompting individuals to present their best selves.

While it may seem that social media is solely responsible for creating a culture of narcissism, it is important to acknowledge that social media is a reflection of society as a whole. The rise of the selfie culture, for instance, is indicative of a larger societal trend of self-expression and self-promotion. Social media has provided individuals with a platform to express themselves, and the selfie is a manifestation of that need for self-expression.

Furthermore, social media platforms utilize algorithms to curate content that is tailored to individuals’ interests based on their previous activity. This has the potential to create an echo chamber, where individuals are only exposed to content that reinforces their pre-existing beliefs, creating a sense of self-absorption. However, it is up to the individual to seek out opposing viewpoints and engage in thoughtful discourse.

It is important to note that social media can be a valuable tool for self-expression, community building, and social change. Social media has given marginalized groups a platform to share their stories and amplify their voices. Movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter have utilized social media to bring attention to issues that may have otherwise been overlooked.

In conclusion, social media is not solely responsible for creating a culture of narcissism and self-absorption, but rather amplifying tendencies that already exist. It is up to the individual to utilize social media in a thoughtful and responsible manner. By seeking out diverse perspectives and using social media to effect positive change, individuals can mitigate the negative effects of social media and harness its power for good.