Watch the video above and talk about it with a group or mentor. Learn more.
Don't be fooled into thinking that just liking or sharing something on social media is enough to make a difference. If you want to make real change, you have to be willing to do something tangible and real.
Key Points:
- A big problem with moral outrage on the internet is that it leads people to believe they have actually done something about an issue, when they haven’t.
- There are a few instances when outrage on social media has lead to change, like the “Me Too” movement.
- The internet has value, but can also be a tremendous distraction, and runs the risk of leading people to believe things that are not true.
- If you want to be an activist for social change, think about what you want the end result to be, and make goals that will get you to that point. Be sure your goals are clear and measurable.
- Glorification of the activist should never be a motive for becoming involved in an issue.
Quote This:
The activist is not the man who says the river is dirty. The activist is the man who cleans up the river. – Ross Perot
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What social issues do you feel passionate about? What actions steps, if any, have you taken to help with these problems?
- Do you ever get caught up in social media outrage? What are some damaging things that can happen if people just rage on social media?
- In your opinion, why is action better than just complaining or talking about an issue? In what other areas of life is it true that actions speak louder than words?
- Who is someone you know who is passionate about making a difference in the world? How do they approach the changes they want to make in the world? Is this person someone who could mentor you in becoming involved in issues you care about?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
