You’re not entirely wrong, but you’re not entirely right.

You can use a screwdriver to stab someone, or you can use it to fix something. It isn’t about the tool itself, it’s about what you’re doing with it.

Some people take social media and use it to connect to others, or they use it to help build something they wouldn’t have otherwise. Many people take social media and use it as a weak simulation of what they’re missing from their lives. It’s all about what you do with the tool.

Ah yes, those disabled people who are unable to leave their house, living their lives on the internet. They should just get out more! I’m sure they’ll be grateful that you’ve solved their problems for them.

Try broadening your viewpoint a little?

… he thought to himself, then proceeded to post it on social media

Impersonal social media like reddit, lemmy, twitter, and mastodon is nice sometimes. We can have a conversation without the conventions, responsibilities, and limitations that comes with real life socializing.

I can decide for myself how long I want to think of a reply. And a reply isn’t even expected, I can choose not to respond if something makes me uncomfortable to talk about. Nor do I have to wait my turn to converse, or be spoken over. I dont have to remember faces or names. Nor remember peoples background or recent events or drama they’ve been involved in. Theres no judgment on age, looks, ability, or gender (unless I disclose it of course). And its possible to fact check stuff while discussing, no need to wait until after to realize someone is trying to misinform.

Imho, all this turns toxic when companies involve “recommended feeds” like they often do.

Or I get to interact with cool people from all around the world that I’d never get to meet otherwise. But ok go be edgy outside if you don’t like it here

Or y’know… you can do both?

Social media also gives you a constant stream of new ideas and perspectives, and allows you to interact with an amazingly diverse group of people from all over the world.

Terible showerthought

Living in the real world is actually become harder and harder. Even good motivated its end for the most a frustrating and no sense experience.

I’m active in the real world and my life is enriched by the interaction I have on niche topics on social media. Doing one does not mean you neglect the other.