I agree. Claims that “social media is making us antisocial” and “social media is ruining our ability to enjoy the ‘real world” are flawed. To the first claim, there have opportunities to connect and “distract” oneself for ages – consider gladiator games, plays, etc. I think social media has created opportunities for people to become MORE social by creating a space where introverts, for example, can interact with others and control the amounts of stimulation they encounter. Social media is also an opportunity to make connections that would have otherwise been impossible years ago. For example, think of how many people can now directly tweet at their favorite writer, director, or celebrity and get a response! What being social looks like now may be different, but I think the claim that “social media is making us antisocial” misses the mark.

Regarding the second claim, social media can impair your ability to enjoy the “real world” only if you do not consume it, as you note, in moderation. Social media is not separate from the real world, and I use it as an opportunity to create conversations that can lead into “real life” dialogues or to continue talks that occurred in person. It is tough for me to be charitable with this claim.

Thanks for writing, Paul.