Eric Kim’s views on sociology and social media reveal a critical and reflective stance. He discusses the societal implications of social media, its psychological effects, and its role in modern communication:
- Digital Colonialism and Social Media Penetration: Kim notes the high penetration of social media like Facebook in countries like Vietnam and the Philippines, raising concerns about digital colonialism and its impact on societies. He points out how social media platforms have become integral to commerce and communication in these regions oai_citation:1,Eric Kim Social Media Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
- Personal Experience with Social Media: As a millennial without Instagram, Kim observes how different age groups in America use social media platforms differently, with younger people preferring Instagram and older generations using Facebook. He also comments on the evolving landscape of social media, with platforms like Snapchat losing popularity and TikTok emerging as an addictive form of entertainment oai_citation:2,Eric Kim Social Media Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
- Reasons for Deleting Instagram: Kim deleted his Instagram account due to various reasons, including its distraction from valuable work, its psychological impact like dependency on likes for self-esteem, concerns about advertising and data privacy, and limitations on freedom of speech. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-expression, choosing to use his own platforms for sharing ideas oai_citation:3,Eric Kim Social Media Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
Through these insights, Kim highlights the complex relationship between sociology and social media, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and authentic expression in the digital age.
