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Introduction
It is easy to predict that social media will soon die, as the damage it is doing to those who abuse it is now studied, known and feared. Many people become addicted to it, losing the unrepeatable chance to live their real lives, constantly feeling miserable for wasting time looking at other people’s “stories.” Yes, “stories,” not reality. Few profiles reflect the truth, but most present a polished narrative, trapping many in an unreal and unrealizable fantasy. Those who believe that the simple world, the one that is not stark and squinting, the one that is imperfect and fragile, is not as attractive as the fake one, are heading into an abyss from which (unfortunately) there is no getting out, except with the effort an addict makes to cleanse himself. However, light always triumphs over darkness and many people are comprendnedo that carefully limiting their time spent on social media, is the key… As always, balance as a great teacher and guide in every field.
First, I must clarify that I am not against the use of social media, but only when used as tools. Anything that is not balanced goes against GOD, against Divine Nature, and against ETHREN, which is based on balance.
As the Holy Scriptures state, Proverbs 25:16: “If you find honey, eat enough of it; if you eat too much, you will vomit.” Similarly, in the Qur’an, Surah Al-A’raf 7:31: “O sons of Adam, take your ornaments in every masjid, eat and drink, but do not be excessive. Verily, He does not like those who commit excess.” Again, Philippians 4:5: “Let your moderation be known to all men. The Lord is near.”
Thus, one cannot ignore the evil behind the quintessential phenomenon of our times. Although it may sound like a statement heard many times, it is still a reality albeit from a metaphorical perspective. Evil wants you to be losers, time wasters, unhappy and dissatisfied. Why? Simple, To increase the power of darkness. Whoever is in the state of unhappiness, voluntarily, or involuntarily, infects those around him. But thanks to GOD, others do not operate in darkness, they find a small lantern, follow it and try to operate in light. They try to manage and balance everything, like social media using them in moderation, focusing on spreading only the good, willing not to judge anyone and understanding that even these can be a great opportunity for positive change.
Imagine if Jesus 2,000 years ago, or Muhammad more than a thousand years ago, could rely on an instrument that could reach believers all over the world in seconds. Certainly today’s world would be a better place. But this post is not for regrets; it is to show opportunities. There is still time to adjust our lives, our relationships with ourselves, our souls, our neighbors and the rest of creation, even with the help of social media.
Expert Concerns: Research and Studies on the Detrimental Effects of Social Media
Excessive use of social media is atrophying your brain. If we do not let our brains work, imagine, and desire, but rely on the millions of rapid inputs that social media provides, the ‘scrolls’ become faster and faster. Meanwhile, the brain becomes increasingly atrophied because it does not need to create its own inputs but only feeds on receiving them.
This article aims to support the prophecy of the final decline of social media, also examining some reasons why these platforms are atrophying many brains. By delving into the implications of our online habits, it becomes clear that social media is not only reshaping society but also significantly impacting our cognitive functions. Numerous studies and expert opinions have raised alarms about the impact of social media on mental health and cognitive functions.
Researchers have documented cases linking excessive social media use to anxiety, depression, and reduced attention spans. For example, a study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that reducing social media use significantly decreases feelings of loneliness and depression. Another study from the University of Pennsylvania demonstrated a causal link between time spent on social media and negative mental health outcomes.
Additionally, the American Psychological Association has highlighted that teenagers who spend more than three hours a day on social media are at a higher risk of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. These findings are confirmed by a report from the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK, which found that social media platforms, particularly Instagram, are associated with negative body image perceptions, sleep problems, and cyberbullying.
The impact on cognitive function is equally concerning. Excessive social media use has been shown to fragment attention spans and reduce the ability to concentrate on tasks for prolonged periods. A study conducted by Microsoft revealed that the average human attention span has decreased from 12 seconds in 2000 to just 8 seconds today, partly attributed to the digital environment we are constantly immersed in. This phenomenon, known as “continuous partial attention,” compromises our ability to engage in deep, reflective thinking, essential for problem-solving and creativity.
Furthermore, neuroscientists have observed that excessive social media use can alter brain structure and function. Research published in the journal NeuroImage indicated that heavy users of social media have reduced gray matter volume in areas associated with emotional regulation and decision-making.
By delving into the results of these various studies, it becomes evident that the scientific concerns about social media use are significant and multifaceted. Presenting a comprehensive overview of these issues allows us to better understand the full extent of social media’s impact on the human brain. This awareness is a crucial step toward recognizing the need for a more balanced and mindful approach to our digital lives. The key is balance and moderation in the use of social media, along with promoting activities that stimulate the brain in positive and creative ways, helping us mitigate the negative effects while enjoying the benefits of these platforms.
Theological Insights: Social Media and the Violation of the 1st and 2nd Commandments
From a theological perspective, the misuse of social media is to be considered a violation of the first 2 Basic Laws of Life. The 1st Commandment requires us to have no other gods in the presence of the one true GOD, while the 2nd warns us against creating and worshiping idols. But what are the idols of our day? Surely do not imagine the “Golden VItles,” or other deities that to this day appear effectively “meaningless” to us. Infact today among the great idols are also “hidden” within social media platforms, which often drive individuals to seek fame, wealth and physical beauty, creating obsessions, thus worshipping idols that take precedence over spiritual values and devotion to GOD.
The relentless pursuit of likes, followers and online recognition can lead to a form of modern idolatry, in which the self and superficial achievements are exalted above spiritual growth and humility. We make singers, or actors, into gods, sportsmen often unknowingly idolized, yet it happens constantly. In Christianity, passages such as Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters…. One cannot serve both GOD and money,” highlight the incompatibility of serving the good and being consumed by worldly desires. Similarly, in Islam, the Qur’an advises in Surah Al-Baqarah 2. 152: “Remember Me and I will remember you. Be thankful to Me and do not deny Me,” encouraging believers to focus on their relationship
Social media, when misused, can lead individuals astray, fostering a culture that prioritizes self-glorification and materialism over spiritual fulfillment. Recognizing this, it is crucial to approach social media with a balanced perspective, ensuring it does not overshadow our spiritual commitments and values.
Conclusion
By adopting moderation and mindful use, social media can be transformed from a destructive force to a valuable resource. Practical solutions and strategies, such as setting time limits, curating content, and prioritizing real-life interactions, can help establish a healthier relationship with these platforms.
Looking ahead, it is critical to understand the potential dangers (for us and especially for our children) and take a balanced approach. Quasto can protect our cognitive health and maintain our spiritual integrity. This awareness fosters an environment where social media can be used for good, spreading positive messages and fostering genuine connections without compromising our mental and spiritual well-being.
In summary, the prophecy of the decline of social media is not just about the fall of the power of these platforms, but a collective awakening to their impact and a conscious effort to use them wisely. This prophecy suggests that people will finally open their eyes and realize that “less” often means “more”: more happiness, less stuff, less information, less expectations and more serenity, balance and connection with GOD, nature and our neighbors.
We are currently filling our brains with too much trivial information, and although some of it is valuable, it is simply too much and too fast for our brain and Soul to process it properly. This overload leads to stress, unhappiness and dissatisfaction. However, human beings are inherently capable of improving themselves, always and always more. This post does not reveal any unknown truths, because everyone deep down already knows that social media will disappear and privacy will thrive instead. People will appreciate moments away from technology, finally achieving much more balance in their lives.
Selfies will become an old-fashioned way to show the sad limitations of our minds, and our desire to appear different from what we really are. We are truly beautiful because we are absolutely imperfect and all different, that is, unique, like those we mistakenly elevate to Idols. We ourselves are the true Gods in this world, but we must know how to behave as such. We just have to be similar in our intent to love others and GOD, adhering to the principle of not doing to others what we do not want done to us. By reflecting on our social media habits and seeking a path that promotes well-being and spiritual growth, we can reclaim our time, our focus and our spiritual health, ensuring that social media serves us and does not enslave us.
