Replying to Avatar Jackie

I think social media platforms could challenge this notion. Traditionally, we’ve assumed that anything we share in the public sphere becomes instantly public. However, when you write something on a social media platform like Instagram, there might be no one who accesses your post for weeks or even months unless you actively engage with someone on the platform. Twitter (𝕏) or Nostr are more akin to blogs in terms of easy discoverability. You post something, and the platform allows people to find your post organically without your conscious intervention. On the other hand, Instagram is a very restrictive platform in this regard. This has led some individuals to feel desperate about building networks to gain exposure to others.

Sounds familiar? No? Then you need to study more about human society.
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Jackie 11mo ago

I think Meta platforms primarily focus on enhancing existing networks rather than expanding them. I’ve noticed numerous marketers and influencers on Instagram attempting to build and enhance their networks to promote their products or content. This practice even involves exploiting the algorithm to make their content more accessible. Unfortunately, Instagram lacks content regulation, allowing children to easily access trashy content from various unscrupulous marketers online. Since these encounters occur solely when the person with the smartphone is present, there’s no one else to witness them. It’s like having a ghost contacting your child while you’re asleep in another room. I’m not trying to exaggerate the risks associated with Instagram; I’m simply stating the risks as they exist. While it is just annoying on a personal level, I also acknowledge that it could become a dangerous weapon if exploited by powerful influencers with malicious intentions.

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Jackie 11mo ago

(It’s a bit challenging to articulate my thoughts because I just woke up and haven’t had breakfast yet. 🛌 ) So here’s a summary of the topics I wanted to discuss about Instagram. The distinction between private and public content becomes increasingly blurred. The desire to build a network intensifies.

Many children already exhibit behavior that suggests they disregard what they say on Instagram because they know no one will read it unless they allow them to. There’s no fear of unexpected discovery by others and potential backlash for certain thoughts that require moderation. (I don’t believe this constitutes censorship. Consider the foolish thoughts you may have had as a child or teenager. It would be embarrassing if accidentally discovered by your parents, but that experience fosters self-reflection and personal growth.)

If the fear of being observed for shameful behaviors is completely removed from your cognitive system, what actions would you take? I believe that many children’s behaviors on Instagram are a reflection of their own answers to this question.