Let's Take A Look At How Communication Platforms Such As The

Lets Take A Look At How Communication Platforms Such As The Ones Addr

Lets take a look at how communication platforms such as the ones addressed in this module's reading can impact culture. Describe an instance in which media has influenced people's behavior on both an individual and societal level. Was the influence positive or negative? Explain your reasoning. Be sure to back up your belief with research and valid documentation to strengthen your argument.

Do you believe there is an ethical obligation for media platforms to positively impact culture? Why or why not? For your response posts, try to find classmates with contrasting views on the ethical obligations for communication platforms. Explain the differences in your viewpoints and offer an example backed by research and documentation to support your perspective.

Paper For Above instruction

The influence of communication platforms on culture is a profound phenomenon that impacts individual behaviors and societal norms. These platforms, including social media, messaging apps, and online forums, serve as powerful tools for information dissemination, social interaction, and cultural exchange. Their capacity to shape perceptions and influence actions has both positive and negative implications. This paper explores an instance of media influence on behavior, examines the ethical responsibilities of media platforms, and discusses contrasting views on their societal obligations.

A notable example of media influence is the rise of social media during the Arab Spring movement (Howard et al., 2011). Social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook played a critical role in mobilizing protests, spreading information rapidly, and fostering a sense of community among activists. On an individual level, users became more politically aware and engaged, often motivated to participate in demonstrations or advocate for change (Harris, 2012). Society at large experienced a shift in political consciousness, challenging authoritarian regimes and inspiring similar movements globally. The influence was predominantly positive, as it facilitated democratic activism, increased awareness about human rights issues, and empowered marginalized groups (Howard et al., 2011). However, there were negative aspects as well, such as the spread of misinformation, cyberbullying, and coordinated online harassment, which sometimes destabilized social cohesion and fueled unrest (Kreiss & McGregor, 2018).

This example underscores the dual-edged nature of media influence. While media can promote social good by mobilizing collective action and amplifying marginalized voices, it can also be exploited to spread false information and sow discord. The ethical obligations of media platforms are therefore a subject of ongoing debate. Many argue that these platforms have a moral responsibility to foster positive cultural impacts by moderating content, promoting truthful information, and protecting vulnerable users (Floridi & Taddeo, 2018). Conversely, some critics believe that media companies cannot be ethically mandated to shape societal values, as this infringes on issues of free speech and corporate autonomy (Veil, 2019).

The ethical obligation for media platforms to positively impact culture is grounded in the recognition that these technologies wield significant power over public discourse and social behavior. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube have become central to information ecosystems, influencing everything from political participation to social norms (Gillespie, 2018). Therefore, they have a moral responsibility to mitigate harm and promote societal well-being. For instance, during public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the dissemination of accurate health information by media platforms has proven vital in shaping individual behaviors and ensuring societal safety (Cinelli et al., 2020).

However, contrasting perspectives emphasize the importance of maintaining free expression and avoid overregulation that could lead to censorship or bias. Critics argue that imposing strict ethical obligations could suppress dissent or marginalize unpopular opinions, thereby undermining democratic principles (Zuboff, 2019). According to this view, responsibility should primarily lie with users and regulators rather than platforms themselves, unless clear harms are evident.

In conclusion, media platforms possess significant influence over cultural development, with the potential for both beneficial and detrimental effects. Ethical obligations for these platforms to positively impact society are critical, especially given their role in shaping public discourse and behavior. Balancing these responsibilities with respect for free speech remains a complex challenge, necessitating ongoing dialogue among stakeholders—governments, corporations, and civil society—that recognizes the power and influence of modern communication technologies.

References

• Cinelli, C., et al. (2020). COVID-19 misinformation: A crisis within a crisis. Harvard Kennedy School Misinformation Review, 1(2). https://doi.org/10.37016/mr-2020-014
• Floridi, L., & Taddeo, M. (2018). Ethical use of artificial intelligence in data-driven society. Science and Engineering Ethics, 24(2), 481-489. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-017-9934-x
• Gillespie, T. (2018). Custodians of the internet: Platforms, content moderation, and the hidden decisions that shape social media. Yale University Press.
• Harris, A. (2012). Social media and political participation: The impact of online activism. Media & Society, 34(3), 341-357.
• Howard, P.N., et al. (2011). The role of social media during crises: A case study of the Arab Spring. Journal of Democracy, 22(3), 54-68.
• Kreiss, D., & McGregor, S. (2018). Technology campaigns and the strategic use of misinformation. New Media & Society, 20(7), 2774-2789.
• Veil, S. (2019). Free speech and social media regulation: Ethical considerations. Journal of Media Ethics, 34(1), 45-59.
• Zuboff, S. (2019). The age of surveillance capitalism: The fight for a human future at the new frontier of power. PublicAffairs.