General Discussion

I tell everyone get off social media, no matter how big and important they may be, and have done so for years. Federal agencies, news sources, and politicians use social media because we are there, it is not the other way around, not that we have to be there because they are. Social media has replaced quality journalism and meaningful communications from institutions to a large extent, and debased what hasn't been replaced. The entire national political discussion has been debased, reduced to the level of bumper stickers. Collective memory is being systematically destroyed.

Republicans can advance their agenda with fear mongering, with emotionally charged one liners, with the endless repetition of simple minded slogans. We can't. We need a deeper and more sustained engagement with the public. Social media is the perfect communication tool for the right wing, and does not work for us. It is not a neutral tool. It can't be bent to work for us. Every time we use it we are helping our enemies.

When I see a tweet from a politician here I call their office and talk to staffers about how social media boosts right wing propaganda agenda and funds our enemies. That give and take human to human interaction doesn't happen on soil media. Talking to staffers is something I have done or a long time. They are the next generation of political leaders. I can't count the number of times that there were really productive conversations. However, it is becoming more and more rare for anyone in Congressional offices to answer a phone. Why? Social media.

Social media is the main reason we have Trump and the main reason people are isolated. It is an addiction, and I think that is why people get so upset when it is suggested they put it down.

I am not telling you to disengage, I am suggesting that you re-engage with the world outside of social media.

No one will listen to me about this, but I think someone should be warning people about the dangers.