Alright, folks. The last time I was here, I was venting about Congress and the, shall we say, interesting choices made by the American news media. I thought I’d emptied my reserves of rage for the week, but I was mistaken. Because right in front of me, buzzing with digital energy and radiating low-level anxiety, is social media.

Social media. We all love to hate it, and let’s be honest—most of us are probably guilty of contributing to the mess. Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how these platforms, intentionally or simply through their algorithmic momentum, are actively deepening the already widening divide in our country. We’re more polarized than ever; consequently, I can’t help but feel that Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and their counterparts are merely pouring gasoline on the fire.

And it got me thinking… what the heck is wrong with us?

What drives someone to spend their precious time (and energy, let’s not forget the energy!) spewing hate and vitriol at the “other side” after an election? I’m not talking about constructive criticism or healthy debate. It’s about the outright, venomous, personal attacks that flood our timelines every election cycle (and honestly, pretty much every single day now).

I’m not talking about this election cycle; this has been happening for decades. We have been building up to this point for a long time.

And here’s what baffles me: Do these people honestly believe they’re changing anyone’s mind? Do they genuinely think that by calling someone a “libtard snowflake” or a “MAGA chud” they’re going to suddenly see the error of their ways and switch political allegiances?

Come on! We’re not talking about convincing someone to try a new brand of coffee. We’re talking about deeply ingrained beliefs, values, and personal experiences. You’re not going to bulldoze through that with a meme.

So, what gives? What’s the motivation behind all this online animosity? I have a few theories; however, none are particularly flattering to humanity.

Theory #1: The Ego Buffet

Let’s be real. Sometimes, social media feels like one giant ego buffet. We curate our feeds, surround ourselves with like-minded individuals, and then get a dopamine rush whenever someone agrees.

Maybe, just maybe, the most aggressive online users are just trying to prop themselves up. By tearing down the “other side,” they feel superior, more intelligent, more right. It’s a sad, pathetic little power trip fueled by likes and retweets.

Think about it: How often do you see someone engaging in genuine, respectful dialogue with someone with opposing views? It’s rare, right? Because it requires effort, humility, and a willingness to listen. Much easier to fire off a snarky comment and bask in the validation of your echo chamber.

Theory #2: The Groupthink Gravity Well

Speaking of echo chambers, let’s talk about groupthink. We’re social creatures, wired to seek belonging and acceptance. And social media is a master at exploiting that. The algorithms are designed to show us content that aligns with our existing beliefs, reinforcing our biases and making us even more resistant to dissenting opinions.

Suddenly, you’re surrounded by people who think exactly like you do. And when everyone around you is saying the same thing, it’s easy to get swept up in the collective sentiment, even if it’s irrational or hateful.

Think of it like a gravity well. The more people say the same thing, the stronger the pull becomes. And before you know it, you’re regurgitating talking points and demonizing anyone who dares to disagree, all in the name of fitting in.

Theory #3: The Anonymity Shield (and the General Decline in Civility)

Let’s face it, the internet has made it easier than ever to be a jerk. Hiding behind a screen, you can say things you’d never dream of saying to someone’s face. The anonymity (or perceived anonymity) emboldens people to be more aggressive and disrespectful.

And honestly, I think there’s been a general decline in civility. We’re constantly bombarded with negativity and conflict, both online and offline. It’s like we’ve forgotten how to disagree without being disagreeable.

The Real Tragedy: Dismissing Friends and Neighbors

But here’s the part that gets to me: Why would you show yourself to dismiss your friend or neighbor over their political thinking?

Seriously, I don’t understand it. We’re all just trying to navigate this crazy world and do what we think is best. We all have different backgrounds, experiences, and values that shape our perspectives. Why is it so hard to respect those differences?

I’ve seen friendships and even family relationships crumble over political disagreements. People are unfriending each other on Facebook and refusing to speak to each other during the holidays. It’s heartbreaking.

Are our political beliefs so vital that we must sacrifice our relationships for them? Are we willing to let a politician, or a political party, come between us and the people we care about?

So, What Do We Do?

Okay, I’ve ranted enough. But what can we do to break free from this social media vortex of doom?

Honestly, I don’t have all the answers. But here are a few things I’ve been trying to do:

• Be mindful of my own biases. I’m not immune to the echo chamber effect. I actively try to seek out diverse perspectives and challenge my assumptions.
• Practice empathy. Before reacting to something online, I try to put myself in the other person’s shoes. Why do they feel the way they do? What experiences have shaped their beliefs?
• Engage in respectful dialogue. If I engage with someone with opposing views, I try to do so respectfully and constructively. I listen more than I speak, and I avoid personal attacks.
• Take breaks from social media. Sometimes, you need to unplug and disconnect. Step away from the noise and focus on the things that truly matter: relationships, hobbies, and self-care.
• Remember that we’re all human. We’re all just people trying to figure things out. We all have our flaws and our struggles. Let’s try to be more understanding and compassionate towards each other.

Conclusion

It’s not going to be easy. Social media algorithms are working against us, and the political climate is more polarized than ever. But I believe that we can do better. We can choose to be more thoughtful, respectful, and understanding.

We can choose to build bridges instead of walls.

And maybe, just maybe, we can start to heal the divisions that are tearing our country apart.

Excuse me, I will go outside and touch some grass. Because frankly, I think we all need a little bit of that right now.

What are your thoughts? How do you navigate the social media minefield? Let me know in the comments. But please, be respectful! We’re all in this together.