Nowadays, social networking sites, such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, have become the most significant part of day-to-day life. Opponents believe that these networks help individuals to stay connecting each other, whereas proponents consider that they create isolation. Both views will be discussed in the essay below, and from my point of view, I strongly agree with the view that social media brings people closer together.
To start with, social media platforms have improved to connect with people and build strong relationships from anywhere in the world. These sites allow users to stay closer with their family members and friends, although they live far away, and help them to find old school friends. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals used video calls through WhatsApp to support each other. Moreover, social networks, such as Zoom and WhatsApp, can be utilized by students and employees to connect with colleagues, teachers, and employers from anywhere, which helps them to upgrade their knowledge and share ideas. Furthermore, communities can provide support from any location by exchanging messages about illnesses or economic problems via social media.
On the other hand, some individuals think that social networking sites make people lonelier. Excessive use of these platforms limits face-to-face conversations with relatives and friends, and some people prefer to stay alone with them. Consequently, people can lose their communication skills and develop mental illnesses, such as depression. For example, many young people spend time online chatting rather than talking face-to-face, which can affect their sleep quality and bonds. Additionally, although users can find thousands of new colleagues through Facebook and Instagram, these connections are weak, and some people may be liars and cheaters.
In my opinion, social networks bring people closer than isolation. If these networks are used with balance and proper guidance, it is a positive method that can improve connections and reduce loneliness. These platforms also provide great opportunities to develop real deep bonds.
In conclusion, although sometimes social networks create loneliness, they can connect people more effectively from any location. Hence, I strongly believe that online social media connects individuals very closely.