I am genuinely astonished by people who blame the internet, social media, and technology.
People keep demonizing objects, technology, weapons, and so on, because human beings have always done the same thing: they look for something else to blame so they do not have to admit that the real problem lies within human beings themselves.
The same weapon that can kill an innocent person can also save a defenseless one. It can save a child or a woman from a criminal.
The same knife we use to prepare our food can also be used to kill.
Even food can kill. Raise your hand if you are allergic to shrimp, peanuts, or other foods.
The problem is not the things themselves. The problem is WHO uses them.
Technology is not what takes away jobs. Has anyone studied history? For centuries, progress has continued to move forward, and those who adapted and worked hard always found new opportunities when old ones disappeared. The problem was never technology. The problem is GREED, and greed comes from HUMAN BEINGS.
Do social media platforms make people less intelligent?
Only if people choose to let them. Only if families fail to educate, guide, and discipline.
Do you know what technology and social media mean to me—and, I believe, to many others?
Connection.
The internet and social media have allowed me to make incredible and cherished friends all around the world. They have allowed me to learn not only about people, but also about their cultures. They have enabled us to share knowledge, emotions, experiences, and moments together.
They do not create isolation. On the contrary.
They create community.
They help those who need immediate assistance.
They expose crimes that once remained hidden. Just look at today's television media—much of it only reports what is convenient. How many people suffered because certain stories were never told?
Do you think human trafficking is something modern?
Is slavery something new?
Are drugs a recent invention?
Is murder a modern phenomenon?
No.
Open a history book and you will see that none of these things are new. The difference is that today we hear more about them.
And we hear more because of the internet.
The internet gives everyone a voice.
In the past, only those with money had one.
Its equality may not be perfect, but it has significantly reduced inequality and expanded the space for ordinary people to be heard.
It has broken barriers, challenged prejudice, and brought people together across differences.