Netiquette is dead. Netiquette, or the set of rules and behaviours that are expected to be practiced on the internet and social media, has clearly been forgotten.
With regard to the recent article “Social media and your future!” (Courier, February 2), it is apparent that social media has a dark side and that many of us are not aware that our online presence, if bad, could cause a major ripple effect in the lives of others.
Nasty comments, racism or sexism are common examples of a negative online presence.
As a teenager, I feel that simply talking about this problem is not enough.
In order to really break ground with this problem it needs to be addressed from a young age, particularly in schools. According to the Pew Research Center, 73% of teenagers have access to smartphones worldwide.
In schools, paying respect to students and elders is emphasized daily.
The fact that we stand up when an adult enters the classroom or greet a teacher in the hallways is proof of this; so why isn’t the importance of netiquette emphasized or taught as much?
We need to get over the fact that teenagers or even children have created a “cyber-life” for themselves, and start preparing them for all the possible dangers that they may face in this new world; just like a parent would teach a child not to talk to strangers.
We need to teach them that words hurt, regardless of where they are said. Parents need to start getting more involved in their children’s “cyber-life” for the safety of their child and others.
Most importantly we all need to respect one another and remember that there is a person on the other side of that screen.
Social media should be enjoyed by all – not feared.
RUVESHAN NAIK
Stanger
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