Reference no: EM133739926 , Length: Word Count: 2000 Words
Homework: Characterizing Addiction to Social Media Argumentative Essay
There are those who believe that technology-the Internet, cell phones, social media, etc.-will be the test of the modern world, and that in this new opportunity we will discover a "new and unbearable disturbance of peace, or a saving radiance in the sky," as American writer E.B. White wrote of television.
The average 16-24-year-old spends roughly three hours a day on social media. Some might consider this as falling into the category of an addiction, and that we become so overwhelmed with information and sensory imagery that we, in effect, shut down from sensory overload and fall into a catatonic state where we become indifferent to everyone and everything around us. Take this concept one step further, is it possible that social media has become like a drug addict's hypodermic needle-message form media get "injected" into our systems, and we become powerless to resist its influence?
Some research believe that Americans-and in particular the younger generation-are so "hooked" on social media that they fit the criteria for substance abuse as defined in the official psychiatric manual. Consider just a few of the "dependency" symptoms:
1) Indiscriminate preoccupation with social media
2) Use of social media induces positive and/or negative mood changes
3) An increase of social media over time
4) Interpersonal conflict due to excessive social media use
5) Feelings of "withdrawal" when kept from using social media
For this particular homework, you will make an argument that either supports the idea that social media is addictive, or not. Like with all essays in the class, you will investigate this controversial topic by collecting, generating, and evaluating evidence to support your position. Argumentative essays generally call for extensive research of previously published material. This allows students to learn about one particular topic from multiple points of view. And, of course, argumentative essays must always establish a clear thesis and follow sound logic and reasoning.