Election time creates an atmosphere of intense social
interaction. Everyone seems to
awaken to the fact that they have a voice, a choice, and an opinion. The concept that we are able, in part,
to choose the direction and character of our future translates to many of us
becoming emboldened to share the opinions and ideas that we would otherwise
keep silent. And not only do we
share them, but we often insist upon them, creating division and intolerance
towards anyone with an opposite view.
Most of this “sharing” or “discussion” is happening on an impersonal
basis. While we still seem to be
obeying the old laws of not discussing politics or religion in public, we have
realized that the media, meaning all forms of media, from the press to social
media, are more of a mouthpiece for opinions then they are a
forum for open and understanding discussion. While this has become commonplace in news media through the
skewing of facts and opinions to support a one-sided view, it has also taken
hold in social media outlets like Facebook. I’m sure most of you who are reading this are familiar with
the phenomenon I’m talking about, and probably many of you have taken part in
it as well. The silent shouting
and badgering, sarcastic mockery and outright hate for not only an individual, but
also the entire demographic he stands for. And yes, the incessant and unrelenting instruction that you
VOTE!
