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In an era dominated by digital connectivity, social media has emerged as the heartbeat of global communication. With the tap of a screen, the world is instantly connected, shaping opinions, sparking trends, and influencing the very fabric of society. As platforms like Facebook, X , Instagram, and Tiktok continue to spread every aspect of our lives, the lines between virtual and reality blur. In 2020, a whopping 4.7 billion individuals used the internet. Fast forward to 2023, Meta’s Instagram is rocking with 1.35 billion monthly users. Statista predicts these numbers will only climb higher each year. Let’s face it, social media has thrown a game-changer into the world, and breaking free from its grip? Easier said than done!

The Growing Influence of Social Media in Shaping Public Perceptions

We all know that social media has emerged as the most powerful force shaping public opinion since the technological revolution altered our way of life and the way we exchange knowledge. Social media and the Internet have taken centre stage in the environment that shapes and influences people’s perceptions, attitudes, and even behaviours.  It has also developed into the simplest means of global communication, the quickest way to obtain information from a variety of sources, and a means of learning about the many ideas of other cultures.  That is how social media works to sway public opinion and encourage the audience to engage in the desired behaviour. 

Image: Meg Hellyer

As social media has grown, it has become a vital addition to reputable news sources like CNN, FoxNews, and the BBC, if not their perfect replacement. Is social media, then, taking over as the main channel for the dissemination of truth? Is it possible for us to argue that this is true? Let’s find out!

 The Rise of Social Media as a News Source

According to 2023 Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism survey, 89% of Malaysians get news from online, including social media, whilst 46% rely on television for news sources. This shift in news consumption habits is a reflection of the convenience and accessibility offered by social media platforms, as well as the personalised nature of news selection and curation. However, this shift also raises concerns about the credibility and reliability of news shared on social media, as misinformation and fake news have become increasingly prevalent. 

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Primary justifications for utilizing social media on a global scale Source: Data Reportal

The data clearly indicates a global trend, with 34.1% of individuals using social media as a platform for consuming news stories, while 30.2% engage with various content formats, including articles and videos.

Primary motivations for utilising the Internet in Malaysia Source: Meltwater

Malaysians engage with the internet primarily for three key purposes: seeking information (76.2%), staying informed about news and events (65.8%), and maintaining connections with friends and family (64.2%). The internet undeniably plays a significant role in facilitating education, research, and communication.

Primary reasons for utilising social media in Malaysia Source: Meltwater

In today’s fast-paced world, 52.7% of Malaysians turn to social media for convenient entertainment and relaxation, while 42.6% use it as a primary source for staying updated on local and global news. As traditional media diminishes, social media is becoming indispensable in 2023, fostering connections and delivering crucial information in Malaysian culture.

The Rise of User-Generated Content in Breaking News Stories

User-generated content (UGC) has become increasingly prevalent in the realm of breaking news stories. With the rapid rise of social media platforms and the ease of sharing information online, traditional news outlets are no longer the sole gatekeepers of disseminating news. Instead, ordinary citizens have emerged as active participants in the news reporting process, becoming first hand sources of information through the creation and sharing of UGC. It transforms the landscape of political participation, offering a dynamic platform for citizens to shape and influence socio-political narratives.

For instance, the notorious on-going war crimes 2023 committed by Israel against Palestine. Since we live in a bubble, sharing our opinions and thoughts about this crisis, most posts I see echo my views, particularly supporting Palestinians. However, mainstream media often leans toward the Israeli narrative without presenting the Palestinian side. This creates an impression that the conflict is too convoluted to grasp, making it hard for people to form opinions and opens for biasness. Harry Fear, a columnist at The Guardian, has highlighted the subtle bias in “fair and balanced” media, noting the dehumanisation of Palestinians. While reputable outlets like the BBC reported people being “killed” in Israel, Palestinians in Gaza were simply said to have “died.” This begs the questions about the circumstances and responsible parties behind these deaths. Fortunately, people worldwide marched in solidarity with Palestine, calling out for a permanent ceasefire. A noteworthy example—over 500,000 Palestine supporters flooded London streets on October 28, 2023.

Source: Reuters

So how exactly does such a movement occur?

One word- ‘Hashtag’. Hashtags play a crucial role in today’s social media scene, connecting conversations, raising awareness for causes and events, and sharing personal stories. Checking out the trending hashtags on Twitter or Instagram gives us a snapshot of what is on people’s minds at any moment. It contributes to the rise of trends, paving the way for increased popularity. Citizen journalists, armed with smartphones and social media accounts, are now able to report on events as they unfold, providing an alternative perspective to what is often seen in mainstream media. This phenomenon has not only given a voice to previously marginalised groups but has also shed light on underreported stories and perspectives. Rather than relying solely on the editorial decisions of established news organisations, citizens can now directly contribute to the public discourse and hold those in power accountable. Through platforms like Twitter, citizen journalism has enabled the public to access a diverse range of information, challenging the monopoly of traditional media outlets and shaping the way news is consumed in today’s digital age. [#socialmedia #internetrules #tiktok #humanrights #politicalmovement]

Public Trust in Social Media versus Traditional News 

Examining public trust in these two realms reveals a complex interplay of factors. Social media, with its user-generated content, has the advantage of immediacy and diversity. Yet, this very diversity introduces a plethora of perspectives, blurring the line between fact and opinion. The viral spread of misinformation on social media has become a pressing concern, challenging the very foundation of trust.

Conversely, traditional news, with its editorial checks and balances, offers a sense of reliability. The rigorous verification processes and adherence to journalistic ethics have historically positioned traditional news outlets as trusted sources. However, the perception of bias, sensationalism, or corporate influence continues to erode this trust.

The dynamics of trust in social media are closely tied to the concept of user-generated content. The notion that everyone can be a reporter and share their version of events empowers individuals but also introduces a multitude of perspectives. The challenge then becomes distinguishing between genuine, well-researched information and the echo chamber of sensationalism.

On the flip side, the traditional news system, with its organised and carefully examined approach, is not allergic to criticism. The concentration of news decision-making in central offices may unintentionally result in a limited viewpoint, sidelining specific voices. This has prompted efforts to bring more diversity and inclusivity into newsrooms, aiming to close representation gaps and mend broken trust.

Conclusion

An Oxford study indicates that news related to politics is perceived as especially dubious, and many individuals consider online platforms as contentious spaces for political discussions, particularly among those highly interested in politics. Trust levels in news, overall, are higher in comparison to trust in news specifically covering political matters. However, the way people trust the media is always changing, influenced by both social media and traditional news. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. To navigate this evolving landscape, it’s crucial to empower an informed audience, promote honest journalism, and find a balance between traditional and social media for lasting trust in the media. In the end, it constitutes a reciprocal relationship, acknowledging imperfections in the system.