A sword by itself is merely a sword, but whether its purpose is good or evil, the fate is

decided only by the wielder. Any tool holds no merit for being a boon or guilt for being a bane.
The only question is if the user would either use it appropriately or inappropriately. The same
principle applies to the social media. By definition, social media is… It is a product of human
progress that aims to ease communication and exchange information conveniently. Thus, social
media is a boon – a tool of great benefit.
In detail, the advent of the modern social media gave rise to an interconnected world that
reaches people from close range to the furthest distances. It is a new level and mode of
communication that saves people from the costs of meeting personally, relaying messages, or
sending letters. In only just few clicks, communication becomes instantly available. This benefit
can be most seen in times of urgency wherein certain people can be contacted immediately when
there is an urgent need. It has been proven to be an aid in emergency situations, appealing for
assistance, and connecting people who have never met in a period of time. Social media helps
maintain constant communication of people in distant relationships, resolve issues without
having to meet personally, and enable transactions in distance. Without it, all of these would not
be possible.
It is also known that social media has caught much of the attention of people and
expanded their exposure to a wider array of information. The greater availability of new
knowledge and information delivered through social media promotes literacy and critical
thinking, which is a fundamental aspect of a 21 st century learner. It makes the people more aware
of what is happening around them and enables them to understand things in a wider perspective.
Though the existence of fake news and other fraud are going on in social media, it does not
invalidate the benefits that can be derived from it. Fraud may possibly be lurking, but that is an
issue to address in social media and the continuous flow of refined information must never be
curtailed. The benefit of knowledge delivered through social media is too precious to
compromise. Knowledge is valuable and social media has a hold of it.
As a result of eased communication and influx of information, the social media could
even be a ground for freedom of expression and a driver of social change. It is in social media
where people could freely express themselves and extend ideas to the public or their target
audiences. It can be used as a tool to convey an appeal for change, action, and reform. Literally,
social media can be a stage of exposition and social movement. It gives courage to people to
become fearless and stand with what they fight for. The use of social media itself is a
demonstration of democratic values wherein free speech is tolerated and public opinion is
conferred as all are given equal recognition.
To add to it, the social media is not just effective merely in ideas or words but also in
substantiating thoughts into action. Since its beginning, social media came out gradually, first as
a software, then evolved into an industry and a social entity scoping the modern society. It is a
place for promotion, advertisement, employment, and even a training ground for learners. As of
today, it is one if not the leading industry that dominates the world economy. Social media is a
recreation of the society in the shift to a new age of innovation. It has shifted the century to an
era of fast-paced communication, quick delivery of services, safe transaction, and handy
connections.
Denying its benefits and antagonizing social media is turning a blind eye on the
achievements that humanity have attained. It is a reality today and now a part of each of the
people’s lives. We have come this point in time and all we can and must do is to keep moving
forward. The social media may have its downsides, but the advantages of it outweighs the
drawbacks. Issues on social media are not factors to deter its use, but a reflection for every
people not to abuse the bestowed provisions. Social media is made to be a boon and it serves that
way, but it can only become a bane if the person decides to use it that way.