When we see media outlets running stories about gun control even obviously anti-gun outlets like CNN will run some version of both sides. While they may challenge and berate gun rights supporters and let obvious lies from their anti-gun guest go unchallenged at least they offer some version of both sides. However, with the growth of social media and the 140 character story there is very little objectivity, rebuttal or accountability. Also, social media travels much faster than traditional news stories as the information is automatically pushed to our device. We also see many corporations, governmental agencies, and individuals responding to these social media trends much faster than they have to traditional stories.
So, as we see more and more people getting most of their information from social media does this change the debate as it relates to gun control? Traditionally we have seen the public generally support gun rights once they hear all the facts. Does this narrower version of the story change that? Are a growing number of Americans only getting one side of the story and in their haste to “do something” will they support worthless regulation to make themselves feel better and follow whatever is trending? Will politicians be less likely to consider the actual facts, but more influenced by social media and the impact it may have on the ballot box?
While I’m not an expert on social media, public opinion, etc. it does seem we are seeing a change in the way our society is responding to breaking news. Thanks to social media very large groups of people can demand immediate change without the traditional evaluation that issues normally receive.
So, as we see more and more people getting most of their information from social media does this change the debate as it relates to gun control? Traditionally we have seen the public generally support gun rights once they hear all the facts. Does this narrower version of the story change that? Are a growing number of Americans only getting one side of the story and in their haste to “do something” will they support worthless regulation to make themselves feel better and follow whatever is trending? Will politicians be less likely to consider the actual facts, but more influenced by social media and the impact it may have on the ballot box?
While I’m not an expert on social media, public opinion, etc. it does seem we are seeing a change in the way our society is responding to breaking news. Thanks to social media very large groups of people can demand immediate change without the traditional evaluation that issues normally receive.