For most of human history, we've had to learn about things that happen globally - for better or worse - in a way that could be timed and filtered. Whether by the government, the media, the judicial system, or otherwise, there have always been institutional barriers between what is happening across the world and what is perceived by the masses. However, as we navigate the now vast landscape of social media, it becomes increasingly clear that ignorance is no longer a luxury we can claim. The platforms we scroll through daily, originally intended to be glimpses into the lives of those we are already somewhat proximal too, now also serve as windows into the realities many of us were probably pretty comfortable ignoring.
The "Sick", "Starving", and "Martyred" are no longer faceless.
Social media has become a powerful tool for awareness, shedding light on atrocities and injustices that demand our attention. Through a simple scroll, we witness the struggles of people facing conflicts, disasters, and systemic oppression. The immediacy of information confronts us with the harsh reality that, while we may be physically distant, we are undeniably connected to the global tapestry of humanity.
The images and stories shared on these platforms force us to reckon with the fragility of peace, the urgency of humanitarian efforts, and the responsibility we bear as global citizens. Ignorance, once shielded by distance and time, crumbles in the face of the stark truths live-streamed on social media. There are no longer "starving children in [insert any country subjugated by Western imperialism]". The "starving children" have usernames, personalities, tagged photos, TikTok accounts. They are no longer faceless charity cases we will think about only when convenient.
Global struggles have been laid bare.
Social media not only amplifies individual stories but also provides a platform for collective movements. From large protests to calls for social justice, these digital spaces compel us to confront the interconnected struggles that affect us all. No longer can we turn a blind eye to the far-reaching consequences of our collective actions.
The power dynamics and systemic issues that perpetuate global struggles are unveiled within our screens. As we share in the experiences of others, we become witnesses to the urgent calls for change. The veil of ignorance has dissipated, leaving us with a profound sense of responsibility to contribute to positive global transformation - especially when our affiliations are open for interpretation. Who we follow and what we share is up for scrutiny now, and our opinions are no longer safe inside four walls. They can be "liked" and "shared", or judged at large. Our morals and values feel perceivable, whether we like it or not, because others will form opinions about the personas we choose to have online, and what we each use them for.
Confronting our individual privilege.
While social media exposes us to the plight of others, it also holds up a mirror to our individual privilege. It's not just about acknowledging the privileges we have but understanding the implications of these privileges in the grander narrative of social structures.
Through the lens of social media, we come face to face with the disparities in education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. We are challenged to reflect on how our individual choices and actions contribute to or challenge these systems. Privilege, once comfortably hidden in the shadows, is spotlighted. We see what cars we each drive, what restaurants we eat at, what careers we've chosen. We see the blood on the hands of our governments and politicians, in the most literal way, and how it trickles down to each voter and taxpayer.
In an era where ignorance is no longer blissful, social media is much to blame for the bubble burst. It calls for us to educate ourselves, empathize with the struggles of others, and use our privilege to advocate for. Or decide not to. Either way, the choices we make are perceivable now.
Unfortunately the transparency is limited. Some of us will be misjudged as passive observers. And some of your favorite "activists" may be more appropriately labeled as skillful curators. It's a slippery slope when your online perception can also correlate heavily to your income. Intentions are called into question; Did you post that because you care, or because doing the bare minimum allows you to keep your platform? Are you choosing your morals over your brand deals, or vice versa? Decisions are being made on a daily basis, and they are being made on a public forum more than ever before.
Let us leverage the power of social media not only to bear witness to atrocities but to amplify voices, foster understanding, and inspire meaningful action. In a world that can no longer afford ignorance, the responsibility to reckon with reality falls on each of us. Ignorance may have been bliss, but knowledge is power, and with that power comes the potential to shape a more enlightened and equitable future.
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