Defining Social Media
Social media encompasses digital platforms where users create, share, and interact with content. Beyond Facebook and Twitter, it includes forums, blogs, and any interactive websites. It's a modern public square with digital roots.
Evolution and History
The first recognizable social media site, Six Degrees, was created in 1997. Social media's evolution surged with MySpace, LinkedIn, and eventually Facebook, which redefined connectivity and information sharing on a global scale.
Psychology of Sharing
Studies show sharing on social media triggers dopamine release, akin to the pleasure from eating or money. It's a social currency, creating a reward loop for likes, shares, and approval, potentially leading to addictive behaviors.
Social Media Algorithm
Algorithms govern what you see, creating a filter bubble that reinforces your beliefs. By analyzing your behavior, social platforms present content to keep you engaged longer, significantly influencing public opinion and behavior.
Impact on Relationships
Social media reshapes relationships by facilitating connections irrespective of distance. However, it can also create misunderstandings due to lack of tone and context, and lead to the phenomenon of 'ghosting' in modern communication.
Economic Influence
Social media has revolutionized marketing and consumer relations. It's a direct channel for customer feedback and targeted advertising, enabling real-time market analysis and a personalized shopping experience like never before.
Unexpected Social Platforms
Beyond typical platforms, unexpected ones like GitHub or Duolingo have social layers. They support community interaction, profile building, and sharing achievements, stretching the social media definition to include collaborative and educational spaces.
What defines social media?
Only Facebook and Twitter
Interactive digital content platforms
Websites without user interaction
Company
