Technology really does affect character. Cultures do change from era to era, sometimes for the worse. Particular vices can be encouraged by particular innovations, and thrive in the new worlds that they create. …
Facebook and Twitter did not forge the culture of narcissism. But they serve as a hall of mirrors in which it flourishes as never before.
Ross Douthat, writing in the New York Times. Via Walt Mueller.
Douthat is absolutely right: the medium is not neutral. And narcissism runs rampant online, as we “brand” ourselves and broadcast our “excruciating minutiae.” But if social media amplifies a particular vice, might it also amplify a particular virtue?
Matt Hauger 