Critical Spirit and Social Networks

The social networks They are a powerful tool to communicate, share experiences, express opinions and have fun. However, they are not the best source of information to stay up to date with what is happening in the world.

Disinformation, fake news, hate speech and manipulation abound on these platforms. social networks which are based on algorithms that show us what we want to see, not what we need to know.

Therefore, it is important to have a critical spirit and contrast the information we receive through social networks with other more reliable and rigorous sources, such as the press. These have, for the most part, a track record, reputation and ethical principles that oblige them to verify data, cite sources and be accountable to society. In addition, they have qualified professionals who investigate, analyze and explain the facts with professional rigor.

Social Networks as a source of information

It is not about giving up social networks, but about using them responsibly and with common sense. We can be entertained by them, but not informed by them alone. We must be aware that information is a public good, which allows us to form our own opinions, exercise our rights and duties as citizens and participate in democratic life. Therefore, we must seek it, value it and disseminate it with judgment and respect.

Social networks and traditional media are not enemies, but rather potential allies to promote more plural, diverse and participatory communication. But to do this, we need an active, critical and educated citizenry, who knows how to distinguish between what is true and what is false, between what is relevant and what is superficial, between what informs and what disinforms. The invitation is to get out of one’s own ideological trenches in order to generate an informed, interesting dialogue that contributes to the well-being of the country.

Column written by Francisca Fuensalida Managing Partner VF Communications. Learn more opinion articles at Technological Zoom.