It wasn't long ago when Twitter and Facebook launched its off-the-wall way of connecting people thus turning the world real-time fast. Some people who are in actual crisis update their Facebook first than phone the police. This shift from broadcast to peer-to-peer has made an immense change to people's tech-savvy lives. A million folks are now progressively reducing their lives to Twitter/Facebook web site, software on their browser, a mobile phone or instant messages. We are not tied to only one device. It feels very 21st century...When I first heard about Twitter and Facebook, I was totally skeptical. Who would ever like to be bombarded with self-promotion, pointless babbles, and most of all, spam? Don't count me in. It seems to me like it’s only useful for narcissistic people or maybe those trying to waste time. But something made my perspective on it rotate 360 degrees.
On Social Media
Working with Greenpeace spread the word to the world has become a lot more easy because of social media. What is social media, you ask. Beth Kanter gives an excellent definition: "Using the Internet to instantly collaborate, share information, and have a conversation about ideas and causes we care about." The phrase "a conversation about ideas and causes we care about" already hits home. We care about the environment, we care about our loved-ones and ourselves. Social networks like Twitter and Facebook give us the opportunity to share news and ideas, bear witness and record data, expose criminal acts, take action and promote solutions. These things are not new to Greenpeace. Also, cyberactivism is heck of a lot effective especially to people who can't give full time to volunteerism. Social media, thus, teaches us that fostering conversation is the best way to get the message out.
Vox Populi at its best through blogging, sharing and Retweeting
There are so many reasons why people share or retweet. It could be that they find it entertaining, or that they want to publicly agree or disagree with someone. It could also be an act of loyalty or friendship by drawing attention to one's follower or fan. Countless reasons are there but for me, social action tops it all. Some may see it trivial but believe it or not, it is a gateway to larger actions. Easy opportunities are provided for us to make a stand. People's voices are amplified because there's no geographical boundaries. Thus, more people are reached and are more likely be empowered to act.
Tomorrow's blog action day, the largest social change event on the web that will spark discussion on a single issue with a global importance. I'll probably be online the whole day tomorrow to witness thousands of voices calling to action. If world leaders won't take heed on this, I don't know what else will. ;)
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