Problem with Facebook
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Those of us who use Facebook, know much of what passes as communication isn’t true communication at all. We start or pass on stories that touch the heart, information that may or may not be true, jokes, political jabs and wise quotes that may or not originate from celebrities, politicians or historical figures, etc. Sometimes we post information seeking to change someone’s opinion. Sometimes we seek to pass on something that we feel is important or that touched our own hearts. Sometimes what is passed on is inspirational such as a Scripture passage. Sometimes we simply want to make someone laugh. Few posts share the reality in our lives as we do with face-to-face friends.
Many sayings or graphics are harmless like those that countdown to Spring or Christmas. Others border on bullying as they contain subtle threats to those who hold a differing political view. Others make fun or call certain individuals or groups names. Others include profanity. I refuse to go to these negative places. Threats, profanity, name calling will have me unfollowing you. No one has to put up with negative posts, It is a matter of settings. Check those series of dots/periods in the upper right-hand corner.
Some of the posts that bother me are those that overall share something with which I agree, but end with, a subtle threat--if you don’t pass them on then such and such may happen. Other “friends” seek to make you feel bad if you refuse to cut and paste on your page something they’ve posted. Many on Facebook do not realize those with hundreds of friends may not even see the post. I don’t give into this, which is another form of manipulation. If I did, that’s all I’d accomplish with my limited time on Facebook.
Another problem is truth. Just because it is on Facebook, doesn’t make it true. Often we see posts of quotes from famous people—celebrities, presidents like Abraham Lincoln, or other contemporary or historical figures. I’m not talking about those who put something in the mouths of these individuals that is obviously untrue such as Lincoln commenting on environmentally friendly cars. These usually have a humorous intent.
I’m talking about using well-known individuals to pass on some sort of wisdom, judgment or information that, it turns out if checked, was never said by the individual. The use of the image and name of these persons is for the express purpose of giving the passage more credibility. In effect—it is fraud. It is so easy to simply pass these on without checking to verify. It takes a bit more time than simply clicking, but if you value truth, verifying the truth of a post is worth the effort. Yes, even I’ve been caught in this one. Sometimes the finger click is faster than the brain.
Facebook is a way to connect with friends and family. It should be more than simply passing on something passed on to you. Because of Facebook, I’ve reconnected with childhood and high school friends. I’ve also been able to share some of my poems and articles. I’ve been alerted to special events, birthdays, and other celebrations. I’ve also been quickly alerted to the deaths of friends or family members so I can reach out with sympathy.
Facebook isn’t all good or all bad. How we set our parameters, who we allow as friends and how we conduct ourselves—respecting others and not going into rages—makes the difference in whether or not your page draws “friends” or makes them want to escape. Sometimes the biggest problem with Facebook is you and me. Personally, I like my friends, family and fans. I will keep them by being responsible with content and respectful. I will seek to lift up not tear down and bring hope. I hope you will too.
© 2024 Carolyn R Scheidies
Kearney Hub column
https://kearneyhub.com/opinion/scheidies-column-problem-with-facebook/article_008341aa-42c6-11ef-b937-736df54942dd.html
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