Netizens Comments
Netizens Comments
Netizens Comments
WHO are netizens, and why can't they effectively communicate as time passes?
As generations passed, news and media have significantly changed. From our seniors and
parents, utilizing newspapers and listening to radio broadcasts somehow turned into
interaction with posts and shares on social media applications like Facebook, Twitter, and even
Instagram. Our current generation, such as Gen Z or Millennials or whatever they call it, has
constantly been exposed to social media. Becoming a netizen includes actively commenting on
social media posts, mostly news articles, political statements, and relevant social issues. A
netizen is someone who always has a say in something because these types of people embrace
the sense of freedom of expression through the course of commenting in someone's form of
media. Don't get me wrong, having netizens is not a huge problem! These internet citizens
thirst for information subjectively, implying that people digest knowledge daily. They want to
gain new understanding and messages throughout their lifetime! Which allows more individuals
to think more critically and communicate effectively.
However, there comes a problem of influence. These types of influence, such as comments or
'criticism', come in the form of netizens always writing what they want to say. These people
communicate their opinions without filters, blabber about their personal experiences, bash
someone's form of an idea because it does not go their way. Take, for example, the viral issue
of George Floyd. This was a problem between the statement of "Black Lives Matter" or "All
Lives Matter." The BLM Movement was factually known as a movement in support of the
recent death of George Floyd and how systematic black oppression was still alive in some
communities. If you supported the Black Lives Matter movement, you were basically accepting
truth to that matter and fought for what is right. Then comes the dull phrase "All Lives Matter."
In fact, when I first heard of it, it sounded just right. However, the proper interpretation of All
Lives Matter is simply pointing out that black people's lives are relatively undervalued. Take, for
example, a Cancer Fund Raising activity, and someone shouts, "there are other diseases too,
you know?". The All-Lives Matter phrase is tone-deaf and plainly ignorant. So how did the
netizens react to this issue? Most people sided with the BLM movement; however, there were
some netizens who were in denial and stayed strong with their opinion rather than rationally
conversing on a side which is truly right.
Comments should uphold truth and impact. These comments should not be toyed with lightly.
Netizens should dread the importance of effective communication. The issue of the "All Lives
Matter" phrase tends to create commotion and an uproar of beliefs. Netizens should follow
proper netiquette and post comments that are backed up with credible knowledge. It is only
suitable to comment when it is necessary. Here are some questions to reflect on before
commenting: Should we always comment on what we have in our mind? Should we be
criticizing someone for not being like you? Is it right not to limit yourself when it comes to your
opinion since we have the freedom of speech? Should we educate this person rather than insult
them? These questions help you reflect on your values, beliefs, and how they function in the
larger society.
As a student participating in the Media Information and Literacy subject, I have learned that all
people must follow a perceptive Law. This Law does not come mandated but is metaphorically
expressing how all Netizens should behave or react. The agency UNESCO constructed the 5
Laws of Media Information and Literacy. So, what is this Law? This Law is known as the 4th Law
or the "Every citizen wants to know and understand new information, knowledge, and
messages as well as to communicate, even if they are not aware, admits or expresses that they
do. Their rights must, however, never be compromised." This Law truly applies to the current
situation of Netizens and ineffective ways of communicating. It is proper to let media sink into
the reader first before choosing an option. Like this BLM issue, is it right to support the
oppressed? Or is it right to be ignorant of this situation? As netizens read this paragraph, take
note that you should be respectful when you make comments. You don't have to be rude, but
you must be rational. If more of these irrational thoughts or comments are spread throughout
media, it causes a rise in ineffective communication. It could influence more people to be less
analytical and be more biased. I leave you a quote by Socrates, "It is better to change an
opinion than to persist in a wrong one." Remember, people interpret things differently; it is our
duty to always side with what is right. Comment to inspire, not to criticize.