Self-Expression in the Age of Social Media: Are We Slaves to SNS?

On the other hand, I argue that current SNS undermines our fundamental communication abilities and fosters superficial relationships, making a fundamental rethinking necessary.

That’s just a superficial illusion. My research shows that self-expression on SNS often leads to a “performed self,” distancing individuals from their true selves. Evidence from my studies since 1995 highlights that digital communication inhibits deep human connections.

That “digital agora” creates a cycle of shallow approval-seeking. My research at MIT Media Lab shows that excessive SNS use hinders essential self-understanding and fosters anxiety and loneliness. We are caught in the illusion of being “connected.”

But those algorithms are part of the problem. They turn people into slaves to quantified approval like “likes,” distorting true self-expression. In my book “Alone Together,” I discuss how these digital “connections” often isolate people instead.

That “diversity of voices” is merely creating homogeneous echo chambers. My latest research, “Reclaiming Conversation,” reveals that 83% of SNS users tend to interact only with like-minded individuals. This cannot be considered healthy self-expression.

Instead of relying on convenient internal data, look at independent research. A study I conducted with Harvard University showed that 93% of self-expression on SNS is filtered to be “socially desirable.” This is self-censorship and suppression of true self-expression.

That comparison isn’t appropriate. Adjusting ourselves in the real world occurs within the context of direct human relationships. In contrast, self-expression on SNS becomes a performance aimed at an unknown audience. I analyze this in my book “The Second Self,” showing that such performative self-expression leads to the fragmentation of personal identity over time.

That “casualness” is the problem. My joint research with Carnegie Mellon University indicates that frequent posting on SNS reduces opportunities for deep self-reflection and sincere dialogue. Quantity compromises quality. Additionally, what you call “natural self-expression” is often just behavior patterns guided by algorithms.

However, this personalization actually creates “filter bubbles” that trap individuals within narrow interests. My latest research at MIT shows that 78% of heavy SNS users tend to encounter information that reinforces their existing beliefs and values. This hinders intellectual growth and true self-understanding.

Tools shape their users. My research shows that the design of SNS tends to promote shallow relationships. However, I agree with your idea of “deep conversations.” The key is how we achieve that.

I appreciate that direction. I would suggest introducing educational programs to help balance face-to-face communication with SNS use.

That logic is dangerous. Justifying alcohol or gambling addiction as a “social desire” is similarly flawed. Research from Stanford University shows that SNS dependence activates the same neural pathways as traditional addictions, significantly impacting the brain development of young people.

Are you aware that, alongside these economic benefits, the mental health of young people is rapidly deteriorating? WHO reports a clear correlation between excessive SNS use and the rise of anxiety disorders and depression among youth. This social cost far outweighs the economic benefits.

AI filtering is merely a superficial remedy. My latest research at MIT indicates that the revenue model of SNS platforms is designed to grab users’ attention and promote dependence. We need a fundamental reevaluation of the advertising-dependent model.

That perspective seems to come from a corporate standpoint. A joint study with Oxford University shows that the excessive commercialization of SNS distorts its original function as a social network. In developing countries, there are reports that SNS actually exacerbates the information gap.

Let’s examine the reality behind that “contribution.” While you mentioned India, my field research shows that the spread of SNS has led to the breakdown of traditional communities and a surge in online scams. Vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly and those with lower education levels, are especially at risk.

However, those measures do not provide a fundamental solution. According to recent research from the University of California, Berkeley, the rapid spread of SNS platforms is causing serious friction with existing social structures and cultural values, particularly in developing countries. It also accelerates political division and the spread of misinformation.

While you refer to the Arab Spring, subsequent studies have shown that SNS has deepened political divisions and has been used as a tool for mobilizing extremists. Regarding the pandemic, WHO reports indicate that the spread of misinformation contributed to vaccine hesitancy in many cases.

It’s worth considering those proposals. From my perspective, reform should focus on three key areas:
Thorough Privacy Protection
Ensuring Algorithm Transparency
Prioritizing Digital Well-Being