Good news everyone! How social media can make the world a better place
My professional judgment is that Facebook, like any other ‘technology of the self’ (Foucault, 1984) is morally neutral. Hence it can be used for good, as well as not-so-good purposes. Today I’ve listed three stories that illustrate the positive power of social media – none of which I’ve taken from Facebook’s blog, mind you.
Firstly this article shows how the U.S. government is using Facebook to engage people all across the world with its diplomatic representations in various countries. It’s a simple and effective way to attempt to change opinions
How the U.S. Engages the World With Social Media
Secondly, an example of how a major corporation can change its tune following a Facebook campaign.
Nestle Meets Greenpeace’s Demands Following Social Media Backlash
And finally, and most importantly, evidence that social media is changing the political landscape. This is a point that is often forgotten in the hysteria: Facebook gets young people engaged with the political process much more than traditional media.
Social Media is Slowly Changing the Demographics of Political Engagement
Reference
Foucault, M. (1984). The history of sexuality, vol. III – The care of the self. (R. Hurley, Trans.). London: Allen Lane, Penguin.