Expand Your Mind: Are You Social?
by Miki Saxon
Anyone who reads me knows my answer to the social question—I’m not.
I don’t wear branded clothes or those with images advertising whatever, either, because if I’m going to be someone’s billboard I want to be paid, not to pay for the privilege. While that is more a quirk, I have a much larger problem online with the loss of privacy and the attitude of social companies that they have the right to use my data and that of my connections any way they choose for their profit whether I like it or not.
Obviously, one of the most prolific abusers is Facebook, as described in this in-depth look at its current approach to marketing and what’s coming down the road.
When it comes to social I have to admit that I’ve seen some fun (I’m partial to stupid cats) and educational stuff on YouTube. In fact, my company’s newly launched product is on YouTube, so I thought it was very cool that there are a number of people earning serious money there.
I’m not sure if texting is considered social, but the dark side to it is getting darker, with the darkest being death. Now, along with those who kill while texting and driving—cars, trains, subways—you can add lifeguards.
And what would a post about social be without Twitter (no, I don’t tweet). Actually, I have three links that you may find interesting.
- The first is an interesting look at whether Twitter, or any company, can remain relevant as a “walled garden” as opposed to an open, distributed communications platform.
- Next is a debate that looks at the threats, worms and such, that are using Twitter as their access point.
- The third is a discussion that just started and considers Twitter’s ability activate people politically. Check it out and add your thoughts.
Finally, a look at a different kind of social network and its effect on your health.
Flickr image credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/pedroelcarvalho/2812091311/
