Using Social Media and Messengers for Social Interactions

Abstract

Aim . The presented study aims to systematize the opportunities and limitations of using social networks for the development of society. Tasks . The authors examine the effects of social networks across various spheres of public life (social, political, economic, cultural); identify significant parameters characterizing the impact of social networks in the major spheres of public life; formulate provisions on the opportunities and limitations when using social networks for social interactions. Methods . The examination of the opportunities and limitations of using social networks in society is based on the review of scientific works, methods of analysis, comparison, and generalization. Results . The analysis shows that social networks have both positive and negative effects across all spheres of public life. The positive effect of social networks is shaped by the following potential opportunities: expansion of the boundaries of communication between individuals, development of democratic mechanisms, interaction between politicians and the electorate, formation of business ecosystems, knowledge generation and social capital formation chains, access to cultural heritage and works of art, promotion of cultural values. However, social networks also have significant limitations, including manipulative influence on individuals, misinformation, simplified and mosaic thinking, formation of protest movements, displacement of national cultures, among others, which can lead to the formation of reverse negative effects, destabilizing development and social order. Conclusions . The rapid spread of social networks across all spheres of public life has revealed many threats to public security. The authors believe that further development of social networks is associated with the need to form a strategic approach to their development on the part of the government, the business, and the population. Therefore, it is important to determine the limits to which the institution of social networks affects public relations and to comprehensively analyze the institutions of social networks.