SRI LANKA AIR FORCE

PROMOTION EXAMINATION ‘A’ 2023

PRESENTATION PAPER

DEADLY SINS OF SOCIAL MEDIA

BY
 RESTRICTED

12384 FG OFF MBDSP KARUNARATHNE

(LOGISTICS BRANCH)

TABLE OF CONTENT

ABSTRACT.………………………………….………………………………………….03
CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION…..……..………………………………………………........04

CHAPTER TWO

DEADLY SINS OF SOCIAL MEDIA

WHAT ARE DEADLY SINS? ……………......…………………………….…05

7 DEADLY SINS OF SOCIAL MEDIA….…………………………………...05

CHAPTER THREE

3.1 PRIDE THE PERILS OF SELF-CENTEREDNESS …………………... 07

3.2 ENVY: THE PITFALLS OF COMPARISON …………………………..07

3.3 WRATH: THE FLAMES OF ONLINE CONFLICT…………………... 07

3.4 SLOTH: THE SILENCE OF NEGLECT ………………………………..08

3.5 GREED: THE PITFALLS OF VIRTUAL WEALTH …………………..08

3.6 GLUTTONY: THE OVERINDULGENCE OF SHARING……………..08

3.7 LUST: THE TEMPTATION OF INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR ...…09

CHAPTER FOUR

BAD IMPACTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA…………………….…….……………10

CHAPTER FIVE

TIPS TO GET RID OF SOCIAL MEDIA……………………………………11

CHAPTER FIVE

CONCLUSION...………………………………….……………………………12

A TAKE-HOME MESSAGE………………………………………………….12

2
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

REFERENCES…………………………………………………………….…….…….13

ABSTRACT

In the digital age, social media has emerged as a powerful force shaping how we
communicate, interact, and access information. It has revolutionized the way we connect with
others, share our experiences, and stay informed about global events. Yet, alongside its
undeniable benefits, the realm of social media harbors a dark underbelly that warrants thorough
examination. As we navigate the virtual landscapes of platforms like Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram, and TikTok, it becomes apparent that the glittering façade of connection and
information comes with a range of detrimental consequences. This exploration delves into the
negative aspects of social media, shedding light on the multifaceted issues that encompass
mental health concerns, misinformation, erosion of authentic communication, privacy
breaches, addiction, and their impact on relationships. By delving into these complexities, we
can better understand the challenges posed by social media and pave the way for a more
responsible and conscious digital engagement.

3
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1. In an era dominated by technology and connectivity, social media has emerged as a

powerful force that shapes the way we communicate, share information, and engage with the
world. With its vast reach and instantaneous nature, social media offers unprecedented
opportunities for self-expression, networking, and community building. However, like any
tool, social media can be wielded irresponsibly, resulting in negative consequences for
individuals and society as a whole.

2. Drawing inspiration from the concept of the "seven deadly sins," this exploration delves
into the notion of the "deadly sins of social media." These metaphorical sins represent the
negative behaviors that can lead to the erosion of genuine connections, misinformation, and
even harm within the digital realm. Through an in-depth analysis of each sin, we aim to
understand their underlying motivations, explore their implications, and provide strategies for
cultivating a healthier and more meaningful online presence.

4
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

CHAPTER TWO

DEADLY SINS OF SOCIAL MEDIA

WHAT ARE DEADLY SINS?

3. The "Deadly Sins of Social Media" is a concept that draws a parallel between the seven
deadly sins from Christian teachings and negative behaviors often observed on social media
platforms. These behaviors can have harmful effects on individuals, relationships, and society
as a whole. In here we discuss what are those seven deadly sins and what can we do to get rid
of the addiction of social media.

7 DEADLY SINS OF SOCIAL MEDIA

4. The "deadly sins," often referred to as the seven cardinal sins, are a set of moral
transgressions that have been historically recognized in various religious and philosophical
traditions. These sins include,
 Pride,
 Envy,
 Wrath,
 Sloth,
 Greed,
 Gluttony,
 Lust.

Each sin reflects a negative human behavior or attitude that can lead to moral and spiritual
degradation.

5
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

5. The concept of the deadly sins serves as a framework for understanding and addressing
harmful behaviors that can undermine personal growth, relationships, and societal well-being.
In the context of social media, these sins are metaphorically used to describe negative
behaviors that can have detrimental effects on online interactions and communities.

6
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

CHAPTER THREE

3.1 PRIDE: THE PERILS OF SELF-CENTEREDNESS

6. Pride, often considered the root of all sins, manifests itself differently in the context of
social media. In the quest for validation and recognition, individuals may succumb to excessive
self-promotion, showcasing their achievements and possessions in a bid for admiration. While
sharing successes is natural, the line blurs when self-worth becomes intrinsically tied to online
approval. The desire for likes, shares, and comments can lead to a skewed perception of one's
self-worth, undermining genuine relationships and fostering a culture of superficiality. To
navigate this sin, it's essential to strike a balance between celebrating accomplishments and
maintaining humility. Authenticity and vulnerability can foster deeper connections, reminding
us that genuine interactions transcend the pursuit of virtual validation.

3.2 ENVY: THE PITFALLS OF COMPARISON

7. Envy, fueled by comparison, finds fertile ground in the realm of social media.
Platforms teem with carefully curated posts showcasing the highlights of others' lives, giving
rise to feelings of inadequacy and jealousy. The temptation to measure one's life against the
seemingly perfect narratives presented online can result in a toxic cycle of self-doubt. It's
crucial to remember that social media often provides an edited version of reality. Practicing
self-compassion and mindfulness can counteract the negative impact of envy, reminding us that
everyone faces challenges, irrespective of their online facade. Embracing authenticity and
celebrating others' successes without undermining our own are key strategies to combat this
digital sin.

3.3 WRATH: THE FLAMES OF ONLINE CONFLICT

8. The online world provides a unique environment where individuals can express anger
and frustration in ways they might not in face-to-face interactions. Social media platforms

7
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

become battlegrounds for heated debates, personal attacks, and cyberbullying. What begins as
a difference of opinion can escalate into a full-blown conflict, perpetuated by the anonymity
that digital communication affords. The consequences are dire-strained relationships,
emotional distress, and a fractured sense of community. The path to redemption involves
fostering empathy and practicing respectful communication. Approaching disagreements with
civility, focusing on common ground, and recognizing the humanity behind the screen can
quell the flames of online conflict and pave the way for constructive discourse.

3.4 SLOTH: THE SILENCE OF NEGLECT

9. Amid the constant stream of notifications and updates, the sin of sloth emerges as the
silence of neglect. Failing to engage with one's online community can inadvertently signal
indifference or disinterest. Social media is more than a mere broadcasting tool; it thrives on
reciprocal engagement and genuine connections. Active participation in conversations,
acknowledging comments, and valuing the contributions of followers are essential practices for
fostering meaningful interactions. Combating sloth requires recognizing the significance of
online relationships and investing time and effort into nurturing them.

3.5 GREED: THE PITFALLS OF VIRTUAL WEALTH

10. The quest for virtual validation, quantified through likes, shares, and followers, often
leads to the sin of greed. The pursuit of these metrics can overshadow the true purpose of
social media—connecting with others and sharing meaningful content. When the focus shifts
from creating value to accumulating numbers, the result is often a culture of shallow
interactions and inauthentic relationships. Redefining success in the digital realm involves
prioritizing quality over quantity. Meaningful engagement, genuine connections, and impactful
content creation should take precedence over hollow metrics.

3.6 GLUTTONY: THE OVERINDULGENCE OF SHARING

8
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

11. The digital age invites us to share our lives more extensively than ever before.
However, the sin of gluttony arises when this sharing becomes excessive and indiscriminate.
Oversharing every aspect of one's life, from mundane routines to deeply personal moments,
can lead to audience fatigue and dilute the impact of genuinely important updates. Practicing
discernment and considering the relevance and quality of content before sharing are crucial
steps in combating this sin. Maintaining an element of mystery can contribute to the intrigue of
one's online presence, fostering anticipation and deeper engagement.

3.7 LUST: THE TEMPTATION OF INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

12. Lust, in the context of social media, refers to engaging in inappropriate or overly
flirtatious behavior. The digital environment, shielded by screens and usernames, can
embolden individuals to cross boundaries they might not in face-to-face interactions. This
behavior can damage personal and professional reputations and lead to uncomfortable or
unsafe interactions. Guarding against lust involves maintaining the same level of respect and
professionalism online as in real life. Upholding ethical standards and recognizing the
boundaries of appropriate digital conduct are essential in navigating this sin.

9
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

CHAPTER FOUR

BAD IMPACTS OF SOCIAL MEDIA

13. Social media, while offering numerous benefits, has also brought about a range of
negative impacts that warrant consideration. One of the most prominent negative effects is the
erosion of privacy. Users often unknowingly share personal information that can be exploited
by malicious actors, leading to identity theft, cyberbullying, and even real-world threats.

14. Moreover, social media has been linked to mental health issues, such as increased
feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The constant comparison to carefully curated
online personas can lead to unrealistic standards and feelings of inadequacy. The addictive
nature of social media platforms can further exacerbate these issues, as individuals find
themselves spending excessive amounts of time scrolling and engaging in compulsive
behaviors.

15 Misinformation and the spread of fake news are also significant problems facilitated by
social media. The rapid dissemination of unverified or false information can lead to the shaping
of public opinion based on inaccurate data. This can have far-reaching consequences, from
influencing political decisions to perpetuating harmful health-related myths.

16. Another detrimental impact is the erosion of face-to-face communication skills.

Overreliance on online interactions can hinder the development of effective interpersonal skills
and empathy. Additionally, cyberbullying has emerged as a serious concern, with individuals
facing harassment and humiliation on a digital stage that can have devastating effects on their
mental well-being.

10
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

CHAPTER FIVE

TIPS TO GET RID OF SOCIAL MEDIA

17. To break free from the grip of social media, start by setting clear intentions for why you
want to distance yourself from these platforms. Whether it's to improve your productivity,
mental well-being, or overall quality of life, having a defined purpose will keep you motivated.
Identify alternative activities that bring value to your life, such as spending time with loved
ones, pursuing hobbies, or learning new skills.

18. Unfollow accounts that don't contribute positively to your experience and unsubscribe
from unnecessary email notifications. Utilize screen time tracking features on your devices to
monitor and control your usage. Set time limits for social media, and consider deleting the apps
from your phone to reduce accessibility.

19. Turn off non-essential notifications to minimize distractions. Designate tech-free zones
in your home to encourage more mindful and focused activities. Periodically disconnect
entirely through digital detox days or weekends. Communicate your intentions with those
around you for support and accountability.

20. Regularly reflect on the benefits of reduced social media use to reinforce your
commitment. If needed, seek professional guidance to address any addiction or mental health
concerns related to social media. Remember, the goal is to regain control and ensure that your
online interactions enrich rather than detract from your life.

11
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

CHAPTER SIX

CONCLUSION

21. As we traverse the ever-evolving landscape of social media, understanding and

addressing the "deadly sins" that can undermine our online interactions is paramount. By
recognizing the motivations and consequences of these behaviors, we can cultivate a more
mindful and authentic digital presence. Striving for empathy, humility, and meaningful
engagement can transform social media from a potentially perilous space into a platform for
genuine connection, positive impact, and personal growth. Just as we navigate ethical choices
in our physical lives, the digital realm demands the same level of consciousness and
responsibility. By transcending the allure of superficial validation and embracing the values
that underpin meaningful relationships, we can harness the true potential of social media while
sidestepping its treacherous pitfalls.

A TAKE-HOME MESSAGE

22. In the world of social media, the concept of the "deadly sins" serves as a poignant
reminder of the negative behaviors that can corrode our online interactions. From excessive
self-promotion to the spread of misinformation, these sins encompass a range of behaviors that
impact our mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. However, by recognizing these
pitfalls and actively addressing them, we have the power to transform our digital experiences.

23. Embracing authenticity, empathy, and responsible online engagement can help us build
meaningful connections, contribute positively to the digital community, and reclaim the true
essence of social media, a platform for genuine connection, growth, and shared experiences. As
we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the digital world, let us strive to rise above these
sins and cultivate a digital presence that reflects our best selves and promotes a healthier and
more meaningful online ecosystem.

12
RESTRICTED
 RESTRICTED

REFERENCES

1. The Seven Deadly Sins of Social Media Jennifer Horowitz (May 14, 2019)
https://www.room214.com/blog/social/the-7-deadly-sins-of-social-media

2. 7 Deadly Sins on Social Media. Written by Erik J. Olson. Posted in Social Media.
https://thisisarray.com/7-deadly-sins-on-social-media/ (Erik J. Olson, 2022)

3. The Seven Deadly Sins of Social Media - Don't be tempted (06 Mar 2018)
https://www.law.ac.uk/about/press-releases/the-seven-deadly-sins-of-social-media-
dont-be-tempted/

13
RESTRICTED