Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
07 January 2025 | 18:50 CAT

Social media: A double-edged sword that fosters connection while deepening isolation in the digital age. File photo: LinkedIn

In an era defined by connectivity, social media has revolutionized communication, providing platforms for self-expression and economic opportunity. However, this pervasive digital tool also raises significant concerns.

Nasreen Ibrahim, a communications and technology expert, recently joined Radio Islam International to discuss the dual nature of social media. She highlighted its ability to bridge communication gaps, enabling individuals and businesses to connect globally with minimal resources. “Social media reduces communication barriers, allowing voices to be heard without the need for extensive production setups,” she explained, noting the ease of creating content using just a mobile device.

This digital transformation has democratized access to branding and commerce, offering businesses an affordable way to showcase products and services while tracking engagement metrics like likes, shares, and leads. However, Ibrahim warns that this convenience comes with a price.

Among the negatives, she identified a growing addiction to screen time. “Many of us barely put our phones down, driven by an urge to scroll endlessly through content,” she said. This behaviour, Ebrahim observed, often leads to spiritual and cognitive challenges. She referenced Neil Postman’s Amusing Ourselves to Death to underscore the societal impact of excessive digital consumption.

Social media’s darker side also includes privacy concerns, scams, and damaging interpersonal behaviours. Ebrahim described unsettling trends, such as the misuse of platforms like TikTok for contentious personal exchanges. These behaviours, she noted, can harm relationships and erode social trust.

Isolation is another significant issue. While platforms helped alleviate loneliness during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the addiction to “false fulfilment” through fleeting digital interactions fosters a cycle of withdrawal from meaningful human connections.

Ebrahim concluded with a sobering observation: social networks are designed to keep users engaged. Notifications, tailored content, and addictive algorithms ensure prolonged screen time, benefiting advertisers at the expense of user well-being.

While social media offers unparalleled opportunities, its risks demand conscious engagement. As Ibrahim aptly put it, “Like everything before and after, the key is balance.”

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Moulana Ibrahim Daya and Nasreen Ebrahim here.