The Importance of Social Media to Activism Essay - 1706 Words

Lindsey Brown Professor Daren Dean English 2000 22 March 2013 You Cannot Ignore the Importance of Social Media According to Dictionary.reference.com, activism is the policy or action of using campaigning to bring about political or social change. A huge campaign that is well known across the world, the Civil Rights Movement, was brought about by Martin Luther King, Jr. King risked his life everyday to ensure justice and equality for the African American race. â€Å"Small Change† by Malcolm Gladwell gives insight on how activism is more effective than social media, especially from one scenario at the Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina. Gladwell points out his strong belief of what activism can do for a society rather†¦show more content†¦Another drawback is the potential to cause riots or outbreaks in a school, town, or even a country. The countless amount of bullying that happens on social networks is evidence that if social media participants are not careful about what they post on their social media pages and on the Internet for public viewing, it can possibly trigger bias or prejudice judgments. Social networking sites began to become popular in 2002 and although still in their youth, it has many disadvantages that should not be overlooked. People should not have to be worried about what they put on social networks because as Americans, we have freedom of speech. Thus it is reasonable for people to be skeptical and oppose social media when runs the risk of being counterproductive. No matter how much potential social media has for political or societal change it is important to criticize its negative aspects. An article written by Andrea Moncada, begins her argument with the question has social media had the same impact on advocacy. Similar to Gladwell’s points of view, Moncada states, â€Å"social media can help get the word around, but participants must be united by a core message and traditional methods†¦Ã¢â‚¬  This source of uncertainty is the basis for its s upport and is understandable. In addition to the fraudulent issue and the disadvantages it presents; there is a crucial distinction between traditional activism and its onlineShow MoreRelatedSmall Change: Why the Revolution Will Not Be Tweeted1262 Words   |  6 Pagesterm â€Å"social media† refers to the wide range of Internet-based and mobile services that allow users to participate in online exchanges, contribute user-created content, or join online communities (Dewing). It has become common today to use applications such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to express and share your thoughts, opinions, and common interest. 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