The use of social media in the 21st century has soared upwards in an ever-increasing digital world. Not having access to it, or not availing oneself of, could be interpreted as being illiterate. It might not be the case but surely people not making use of social media would render themselves at a disadvantage or in certain cases even laughed at. Social media nowadays is considered the norm and we must adapt.
Like everything in life, social media has its advantages and disadvantages. It all depends how this technological tool is used and what one wants to achieve by using it. Social media is the modern way of communication, to keep abreast with what is happening in the outside world, a modern way of promoting oneself. It could also be used to instigate hate, bullying, stalking as well as many other related abuses.
I don't want to generalise, but it is a known fact that the older generations are the least technology savvy. It obviously, is not their fault. They were brought up in a different world. To be honest even I sometimes struggle to keep up with the continuous technological advancements.
In todays' world, social media took over all forms of communication. It is easy and free. In fact during these surreal times of COVID- 19, emphasis is being made to keep in touch with family, friends and all those close to our heart by using social media. This, however, pushed those who are less familiar with social media into a form of frustration, isolation, or rather, solitude.
Solitude emarginates people from society. Many a time people live in solitude because of circumstances and not by choice. Therefore, as mentioned before, those who aren't familiar with social media possibly communicate less which means they are in a higher risk of solitude.
In normal circumstances, we find many from the older generation experiencing solitude. Imagine what they are going through in the extraordinary circumstances we are currently living in. One might argue that it is up to them to adapt. Its up to them to learn. The argument could be valid if society had the same challenges and opportunities for all. There are many who, for different reasons were not given the opportunity to have a proper education. There are others who cannot simply afford it, whereas there are others who resist change.
Living in solitude is not a pleasant experience. Social media contributed to the spike in numbers unless one doesn't familiarise themselves with this technological tool. In the digital world, where nearly everything is accessed online, even the use of a debit card, checking their credit balance, or not being in control of their finances, or being untrustworthy by nature or over protective of their privacy, people tend to be at a loss of how to cope. It is true that adapting depends on the individual but it is up to the rest of the society to see that no one falls by the wayside. It is up to us to see that no one slides into solitude because of circumstances beyond their control. This, for them, is a hurdle. It isn't insurmountable but it needs to be addressed.
In my opinion, the advancements in the digital world, social media and technology, contributed to the downside of society. If one is not up to it, they feel uncapable. It is not the case. It is up to us to see that everyone is on board and that everyone has an equal opportunity of access to the world we are living in.
Globalisation and advancement in technology came at a cost. Disregarding those living in the periphery of society. Governments around the world should see that everyone is given the opportunity to acclimatise themselves to technology. It would be easier and cheaper for them.
Having said that, it doesn't mean, that I am insensitive to those who live in solitude because of the lack of access to the digital world. It means that I must work harder, willingly so no one feels left behind.
Ivan Bartolo is the PN's spokesperson on Social Accommodation and the Fight Against Poverty, Solitude and Social Exclusion.