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Social Media and polarization of society

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3 years ago

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Social Media has witnessed a mushroom growth that has impacted the discourse of political, cultural and religious systems by providing the equal opportunity of freedom of expression and of sharing an opinion or viewpoint on any issue.

Social Media has played a greater role in rightwing politics that paved the way for populist politicians to reach out to their voters.

Though Social Media has connected the people around the world, at the same time, it is causing division or disintegration and facilitating the social media lobbyists to polarize the communication so much the people support the arguments or opinions or political tirades against leaders without fact checking.

The world has been rocked by social networks such as Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube because the users of these social networks have already surpassed millions and are growing, but due to the limited regulatory framework, fake news, cyberbullying, extremism and terrorism has reached new heights.

The influencers’ interactions with social media users have polarized the political and social circles that led to the formation of online echo chambers, a tactic of social media recommendations by politicians to influence the users to strengthen their narrative regardless of facts that whether it is right or wrong, but it is knit in a manner that echo chambers appear to be normal for the people thus changing the way of thinking and increasing the supporters base.

The echo chambers post such content that we enjoy a lot while reading, while keeping us away from the content that may stir a debate or arguments or expression of our disagreement over certain social, economic, religious, cultural or policy matters.

The echo chambers keep ideas flowing on a regular basis to the one side –the positive side of the argument, while its negative side is deliberately concealed to hide the facts.

This is the big issue that might be discussed with students, who should be informed and taught at school, college or degree level so that positive and constructive use of this digital medium could be ensured.

Social media connectivity around the world is undoubtedly amazing but the problems it created for both people and students are very dangerous, and need to be addressed and regulated.

Digital media, especially social media, for a long time remained unbridled to post any content that may fall in the purview of hatred, racism, bullying, derogatory remarks, character assault, rebellion, or anti-state elements instigating people to create chaos using the olive branch of social media. Since it was not monitored given the type of content being circulated and the information of people posting such content, including their motives behind such content as may have a constant flow of information that is recommended by the users pretending to be professionals, experts and mentors.

Alarmingly, people without fact-checking go on sharing the content and thus creating hype for such an issue as does not have a basis and was the result of a conspiracy to exert pressure on some person or leaders to get some favours.

“The schools and colleges should chalk out the initiative to create awareness and practice of fair use so that social platforms should not post single or one-sided opinions or arguments but should welcome both so that positive use could be ensured. This will further the importance of social media.“

Sometimes, the active echo chambers or volcanoes erupt over such issues as may be beneficial for the wider circle of society, but this finds serious criticism masterminded by people with an individual approach. They term it detrimental for them since it did not serve their interests, though it might have been beneficial for general people.

Humans have an intuitional inclination to communicate with like-minded people or the people with the same choices on social media, thus the echo chambers get even stronger. The discourse that discourages dissenting voices always comes under fire from the thinkers and intellectuals of the nation since it is tantamount to concealing the facts from the people.

The world is coming closer after the covid-19 pandemic that engulfed the entire world, bringing misery and economic crisis. The social media debates go with biased and unbiased approaches regarding getting the vaccine. Some optimists termed it great, while some pessimists or biased approaches raised questions.

The echo chambers try to influence their opinions and win support.Similarly, echo chambers of both Democrats and Republicans only canvassed for their candidates but the leaders instigated the masses to attack Capitol Hill through social media and emotional speeches using their influence on social media, especially Twitter .

Some researchers have found that echo chambers influence people to win support but social media influencers have a follower-base of millions, and may polarize the public and politics, since influencers share success stories like internet marketers compelling you to buy their products.

The opinion leaders and experts reveal that for the last two decades, the percentage of American people having consistently holding liberal or conservative beliefs— rather than a blend of the two, which is the case for most people— has increased from 10 percent to over 20. Beliefs about the other side are becoming more negative creating an alarming situation.

Since 1994, the number of people who see the opposing political party as a threat to “the nation’s well-being or security” has doubled, which heralds how deepening polarization has predictable results raising eyebrows.

The government shutdowns, violent protests, scathing attacks on elected officials, the capitol Hill incident –all indicate that social media have been polarizing the political system and divided the nation each passing day due to echo chambers of both mainstream parties regarding the issues of health, security, human rights, employment and environment.

According to evidence from empirical research conducted on US politicians, politicians following extreme ideologies attracted a larger public audience than those who were moderate, which is the real example of echo chambers.

Usually, messages containing extreme thoughts, emotional instigation, patriotism, or criticizing the opposition received a warm welcome on social media platforms than those messages reflecting merely information.

The polarization of issues and political ideology will have serious repercussions in future that should be addressed on a timely basis so that societies could be saved from further isolation and disintegration.

The issues could be resolved through educating the people and creating awareness about the fair and professional use of social media channels for advocacy for winning support for legislation, an issue, a policy or employment.

Instead of showing the dark side of the issue, we have to educate people regarding both pros and cons of matters of importance for the general public rather than misleading the people with biased approaches to oppose the initiative of the government, community or civil society for the general benefit.

Social Media network operators are the bigwigs and the most influential in this.They cannot be controlled but only  be regulated by framing such laws that  may ensure fair use of this digital platform and are careful so that users may not face any legal issue by discussing sensitive issues such as desecration of holy places, religions, personalities, anti-state tirades, rebellion, terrorism, extremism and so on. The sensitive issue may stir protests and cause legal proceedings, if the cyber-regulatory laws are implemented to discourage the influence of one-sided opinions or campaigns.

We cannot deny the importance of social media platforms as they provide equal opportunity to people to express and share their thoughts or opinions, but safe and thoughtful use of these platforms will encourage healthy discourse and prove pivotal in promoting dialogue to discuss social, economical and cultural issues peacefully without hitting the sentiments of other communities.

Thus, echo chambers will be less powerful to build a narrative that is appealing but the readers will be engaging themselves in the debates that need interaction.

Undoubtedly, social media platforms have changed the political and social approach of the people and enabled face-to-face digital interaction through video and audio conference calls, so their fair use will mitigate their cons manifold.

The social media networks apply algorithms to connect you with like-minded people but it is up to you whether your engagement in communication is either unbiased or biased.

Social media should be promoting positive discourse to explore the political and economic solutions to the problems of people by reflecting the two sides of the coin so that the discourse be constructive and problem-solving. Social media has given a voice to marginalized people and governments are compelled to resolve the issues of people on a priority basis due to trending topics of social media.

Even the populist leaders may face resistance from social media as the public makes the most of the freedom of expression and criticizes the role of politicians for their failure to address the issues of the public.

In recent times, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter have been creating history in highlighting issues of both public and national interest but at the same time such platforms have been taken by storm by those influencers who continue to feed the news about their vested interests and create psychosocial hype for any issue that may jolt the power corridors of Government.

The politicians always take to Twitter for their precise viewpoint and policy debate and are usually followed by millions of followers. Even the print and electronic media take the tweets as policy statements or the narrative of some party or group.

The schools and colleges should chalk out the initiative to create awareness and practice of fair use so that social platforms should not post single or one-sided opinions or arguments but should welcome both so that positive use could be ensured. This will further the importance of social media.

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Business

Unlocking Explosive Growth: 10 Expert Tips to Foster a Crypto-Friendly Business Environment

Published

4 weeks ago

on

April 22, 2024

By

Businesses are increasingly attempting to take advantage of this digital revolution for exponential growth in the rapidly changing bitcoin ecosystem. Businesses need to build a crypto-friendly ecosystem that encourages growth, creativity, and trust if they want to prosper in this fast-paced world. These ten professional suggestions can assist companies in navigating the intricacies of the cryptocurrency space and realizing their full potential for rapid expansion.

1. Embrace Regulatory Compliance

Staying compliant with evolving regulations is key to building trust and credibility in the crypto space. By proactively adhering to regulatory frameworks, businesses can mitigate risks and attract a wider range of investors and customers.

2. Enhance Security Measures

Security is paramount in the world of cryptocurrency. Implementing robust security measures such as multi-factor authentication, encryption, and regular security audits can safeguard your business and customer assets from cyber threats.

3. Foster Transparency and Trust

Transparency is essential for building trust in the crypto community. By being open and honest about your business practices, transactions, and policies, you can establish credibility and attract loyal customers and partners.

4. Educate Your Team and Customers

Cryptocurrency is a complex and rapidly evolving field. Educating your team and customers about the basics of blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies, and best practices can empower them to make informed decisions and drive growth.

5. Offer Seamless Payment Solutions

Integrating cryptocurrency payment options can open up new revenue streams and attract tech-savvy customers. By providing seamless and secure payment solutions, businesses can tap into the growing demand for crypto transactions.

6. Collaborate with Industry Experts

Partnering with established players in the crypto space can provide valuable insights, resources, and networking opportunities. Collaborations with industry experts can help businesses stay ahead of trends and drive innovation.

7. Leverage Data Analytics

Data analytics can offer valuable insights into customer behaviour, market trends, and business performance. By harnessing the power of data, businesses can make informed decisions, optimize strategies, and drive growth in the crypto market.

8. Engage with the Crypto Community

Active engagement with the crypto community through social media, forums, and events can help businesses build a strong brand presence and connect with potential customers and partners. By participating in discussions and sharing valuable insights, businesses can establish themselves as thought leaders in the industry.

9. Diversify Your Crypto Portfolio

Diversification is key to managing risk and maximizing returns in the volatile crypto market. By diversifying your crypto holdings across different assets, businesses can hedge against market fluctuations and position themselves for long-term growth.

10. Stay Agile and Adapt to Change

The crypto landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and trends emerging at a rapid pace. Businesses that stay agile, adapt to change, and embrace innovation are more likely to succeed and achieve explosive growth in the competitive crypto market.

By following these 10 expert tips, businesses can create a crypto-friendly environment that fosters growth, innovation, and success in the dynamic world of cryptocurrency. Embracing regulatory compliance, enhancing security measures, fostering transparency, and staying agile are just a few key strategies to unlock the full potential of crypto businesses for explosive growth.

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AI

Unveiling the Digital Evolution: Web2 vs. Web3 – Understanding the Shift Towards Decentralization and Blockchain

Published

2 months ago

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March 21, 2024

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Introduction:

The transition from Web2 to Web3 marks a significant paradigm shift in the ever-evolving Internet landscape. Web2, characterized by centralized platforms like Facebook and Google, is giving way to Web3, a new era embracing decentralization and blockchain technology. This article delves into the differences between Web2 and Web3, exploring the implications of this digital evolution on our online experiences and interactions.

Understanding Web2:

Web2, the current internet era, is dominated by centralized platforms that control and shape our online activities. Companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon have established themselves as giants, offering services that rely on centralized servers and databases to function. Users interact with these platforms through interfaces designed and controlled by the companies, giving rise to concerns over data privacy, censorship, and control.

The Rise of Web3:

Web3 represents a departure from the centralized model of Web2, embracing decentralization and blockchain technology. In Web3, users have greater control over their data and digital identities, thanks to decentralized networks that operate without a central authority. Blockchain, the underlying technology powering Web3, enables secure and transparent transactions, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps).

Key Differences Between Web2 and Web3:

Centralization vs. Decentralization:

One of the fundamental distinctions between Web2 and Web3 is the approach to centralization. Web2 relies on centralized servers and platforms controlled by a single entity, while Web3 operates on decentralized networks where power is distributed among participants. This shift towards decentralization in Web3 promotes transparency, security, and user empowerment.

Data Ownership and Privacy:

In Web2, users often surrender their data to centralized platforms, which can lead to privacy concerns and data breaches. Web3, on the other hand, prioritizes data ownership and privacy by leveraging blockchain technology to give users control over their personal information. This shift empowers individuals to manage and monetize their data securely.

Trust and Security:

Centralized platforms in Web2 require users to trust the platform provider with their data and transactions. In Web3, trust is established through decentralized consensus mechanisms, such as blockchain’s immutability and transparency. This enhanced security model in Web3 reduces the risk of fraud, censorship, and manipulation, fostering a more trustworthy digital environment.

Implications of Web3 Adoption:

Decentralized Finance (DeFi):

Web3 has paved the way for decentralized finance (DeFi) applications that offer financial services without intermediaries. DeFi platforms leverage blockchain technology to enable peer-to-peer transactions, lending, borrowing, and trading, revolutionizing the traditional financial sector.

NFTs and Digital Ownership:

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have gained popularity in the Web3 space, allowing users to tokenize and trade unique digital assets. From digital art to virtual real estate, NFTs enable creators to establish ownership rights and monetize their creations securely and transparently.

Decentralized Social Networks:

Web3 is fostering the development of decentralized social networks that prioritize user privacy, content ownership, and censorship resistance. These platforms aim to empower users by giving them control over their data and interactions, challenging the centralized model of social media in Web 2.

Conclusion:

The transition from Web2 to Web3 represents a transformative shift in the digital landscape, emphasizing decentralization, blockchain technology, and user empowerment. As we embrace the principles of Web3, we are moving towards a more transparent, secure, and inclusive Internet ecosystem that prioritizes data ownership, privacy, and trust. By understanding the differences between Web2 and Web3, we can navigate this digital evolution with awareness and adaptability, shaping the future of the Internet for generations to come.

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Business

LinkedIn Lays Off 668 Employees Amid Slowing Hiring Activity

Introduction In a move that reflects the broader economic downturn, LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking site, announced the layoff of 668 employees across its engineering, talent, and finance teams. This second round of job cuts in 2023 comes as the company faces a slowdown in hiring activity and a decline in advertising revenue. Impact […]

Published

7 months ago

on

October 16, 2023

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linkedin job search app on an iphone

Introduction

In a move that reflects the broader economic downturn, LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking site, announced the layoff of 668 employees across its engineering, talent, and finance teams. This second round of job cuts in 2023 comes as the company faces a slowdown in hiring activity and a decline in advertising revenue.

Impact of Layoffs

The layoffs, affecting more than 3% of LinkedIn’s global workforce, are a significant blow to the company and its employees. The affected individuals will undoubtedly face challenges in finding new employment amidst a tightening job market.

Reasons for Layoffs

Several factors have contributed to LinkedIn’s decision to reduce its workforce. The company cited a slowdown in hiring activity, a decline in advertising revenue, and the need to streamline operations to remain competitive in a challenging economic environment.

Wider Implications

The layoffs at LinkedIn are not an isolated incident. The technology sector, in general, has been experiencing a wave of job cuts as companies grapple with economic uncertainty and shifting market conditions. This trend is likely to continue in the near future, posing challenges for both employers and employees in the tech industry.

LinkedIn’s Response

LinkedIn has acknowledged the impact of the layoffs on its employees and has committed to providing them with severance packages and outplacement services. The company has also expressed its intention to continue investing in its core business and to emerge stronger from this period of economic uncertainty.

Conclusion

The layoffs at LinkedIn serve as a reminder of the volatile nature of the tech industry and the broader economy. While the company faces immediate challenges, it remains optimistic about its long-term prospects and is committed to adapting to the changing landscape.

FAQs

Q: How many employees were laid off by LinkedIn?

A: LinkedIn laid off 668 employees, representing more than 3% of its global workforce.

Q: Which departments were affected by the layoffs?

A: The layoffs primarily impacted LinkedIn’s engineering, talent, and finance teams.

Q: What are the reasons for the layoffs?

A: LinkedIn attributed the layoffs to a slowdown in hiring activity, a decline in advertising revenue, and the need to streamline operations in a challenging economic environment.

Q: How will the layoffs affect the company and its employees?

A: The layoffs will undoubtedly impact LinkedIn’s operations and morale, while the affected employees will face challenges in finding new employment.

Q: What is LinkedIn doing to support the laid-off employees?

A: LinkedIn is providing severance packages and outplacement services to assist the affected employees in their job search.

Q: What are the broader implications of the layoffs in the tech industry?

A: The layoffs at LinkedIn reflect a wider trend of job cuts in the tech sector as companies adapt to economic uncertainty and shifting market conditions.

Q: What is LinkedIn’s outlook for the future?

A: Despite the immediate challenges, LinkedIn remains optimistic about its long-term prospects and is committed to adapting to the changing economic landscape.

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