On Saturday, I was talking to nonfiction writers about the digital world and social media. Authors and scholars often view social media with concern – even if they don’t see it as mostly negative, it’s at least problematic. After introducing a lot of benefits, I offered – for the first time in such a presentation – one slide with some disadvantages. They can include the following:
- Reading has turned into superficial browsing.
- People read less material of varying length.
- Algorithms reinforce opinion bubbles.
- People are used to getting content for free.
- Copyright is violated.
- Fake news and hate speech spread easily.
- Personal information is a commodity.
- Screens cause health problems.
- People can work 24/7.
A particular concern for the writers is the reduction in serious reading. Could it increase if the writers and their works were more present in different social media channels? People like to discuss books online, especially on Twitter. Authors taking part in conversations and offering links with sample readings could with luck invite readers to explore a wider range of topics, and could also provide more visibility in traditional media.