Hashtagging the Debate

Watching the debate and simultaneously checking my own twitter feed, along with searching popular hashtags, allowed me to compare people's opinions throughout the whole debate. My twitter feed contained tweets from Hillary supporters, Trump supporters, and people who did not support either candidate. The official Twitter hashtag #debates, provided an endless amount of tweets ranging from fact checking videos to funny memes. Each topic discussed during the debate was commented on by viewers. By using different hashtags I was able to pin point tweets specifically regarding those issues. I wasn't that shocked to see my own feed consisted mostly of mocking each candidate. I was shocked, however, to see that #trumpwon was the #1 trending hashtag on Twitter today. I don't necessarily like Hillary, but I am definitely against Trump. It was both an insightful and alarming experience to follow the debate on Twitter, and be exposed to that many differing opinions.

My Twitter Feed

Trending

#debate

 

Well Informed: Race Baiting

By simply searching "race baiting" on twitter, several tweets pop up involving opinions, accusations, and examples of the term. Recent tweets tend to be centered around Trump and Hillary, both of which are being targeted for "race baiting" comments and/or actions.

Race baiting is definitely a seriously issue, and although social media provides an outlet for discussion, it can sometimes be misleading information. In fact social media can fuel the fire and create more hate and a bigger divide. For example, the posting of a racist meme only ignites further arguments and fury from both sides. The media is responsible for the overwhelming response regarding police brutality and racism. Whether the information has been manipulated on social media or not, the public will react according to what they believe to be true. These repetitive and controversial issues are causing social media to become more sensitive and aggressive. If people would take the time to well inform themselves before voicing their opinion so publicly, social media could possibly transform these negative interactions into a respectful exchange of ideas.

On the Media: Kids These Days

Safe Places

I found it interesting hearing both sides of the topic, however, I personally believe that "safe places'" shouldn't exist. I feel like the need to "shelter" people from being offended is kinda ridiculous. The First Amendment gives the right to freedom of speech, and that right seems to be restricted at these "safe places." I absolutely don't encourage any kind of hateful or indecent speech, but to ignore issues going on in the world just because it offends you, seems childish to me.  Despite these "safe places," it's hard to believe that whatever they are escaping from they haven't already see or heard via social media and/or television. 

The podcast gives examples of different contexts including: 

Social- Interaction between those involved in "safe places"

Cultural- Discusses racial issues

Physiological- Feelings and thoughts provoked by "offensive material"