JOHAN STEYN: Tipping point — social media, misinformation and civil wars
Instead of cultivating an enlightened global society, there has been a rise in misinformation and deepening divisions
The dawn of the information age heralded an era of unparalleled access to knowledge. With the advent of the internet, the world watched as boundaries dissolved, and vast libraries of information became available at our fingertips. It was to be the great equaliser, breaking down barriers of ignorance and sowing seeds of global unity. The digital revolution promised not just an informational renaissance but a cultural one, fostering understanding and acceptance among diverse peoples.
Yet, as the pixels settle, we find ourselves in a perplexing paradox. Instead of cultivating an enlightened, interconnected global society, we have seen a rise in echo chambers, misinformation, and deepening divisions. The very tool meant to emancipate us from ignorance ended up binding us in new chains of misconception and bias...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.