So how exactly does social media play a part in politics? For this blog I will be focusing on Twitter because of the innovation that the developers have brought forth on their platform. When you click the blue bird that everyone knows, you are able to go into a discover mode. This mode brings current events to the publics eye as soon as they happen. You can find information on the newest blockbuster that is soon to be released to the latest gossip between your favorite celebrities. An individual also has access to see what is going on in the executive, legislature, and judicial branch of their government. They also have the ability to even read about foreign affairs going on with other countries as Twitter is accesible around the globe. People are able to gather information about a topic without fear of biased news.
Since Twitter is used by nearly everyone, I can almost guarantee that you will can find your state governor or your local mayor with an account. Even the past couple presidents have Twitter accounts. One might of heard how Donald Trump uses Twitter to reach a large audience. Although, often time he stirs up huge discussion on his post, it is beneficial because it gives people a chance to express how they feel. The public is able to express their concerns through commenting, and are actively taking part in their community. Political officials are able to post about their campaign, giving people a chance to have a voice by retweeting to share with their friends, like to show that they support their platform, or comment and voice what they have to say.
Recently "fake news" have been challenging civic discourse. Since anyone is able to write anything they want people are able to bring up lies and put them out to the public audience. In the past election, this played a more critical part compared to any other election. Shamidh Chakrabarti, Facebook's product manager for civic engagement, said in a blog post that "it [Facebook] allows people to spread misinformation and corrode democracy." I believe that everyone should be aware of the truth so that can be civically engaged in their community, to hold intelligent conversations with others and just to be correctly informed.
Even Pope Francis recently had comments on what fake news does to politics. He argued his point by staying it was similar to when the devil disguised as a snake lured Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. He mention that journalist don't just have the job to report the actual news, he said it was their mission. I agree with Pope Francis, if people are getting paid to inform others of what is going on in the world they should be hold accountable to report that news correctly.
Although social media makes news easily accessible to the population, it also brings some negativity along with it. I don't think there is anyway that "lies" can be filtered out, so I think it is only right if people are educated on how to identify it. I believe even though freedom of speech is protected by the 1st amendment, one should have a moral duty to be honest.
