“You can never go wrong by investing in communities and the human beings within them.” ~Pam Moore
Mushrooming and established, influencers ubiquitously have become an integral part of people's lives especially youth, captivating modern society with their engaging content and vast online presence. Millions and billions of people around the globe keep checking and following influencers on social sites such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or Linkedin.
However, there is an ongoing debate regarding the purpose and impact of influencers.
While some argue especially youth that their primary role is to entertain and bring smiles to the faces of the depressed, others, included believers of old schools, question whether their fame and influence are contributing to positive societal change or not. Don't they have any responsibility as citizens of nation towards the society and nation, the fans, the followers who make them celebrities? What type of constructivism is there?
It cannot be denied that influencers possess an extraordinary ability to entertain and uplift spirits. And the power of entertainment is not treated less because we all know, people of all age groups, profession and gender like entertainment. It reminds me lines spoken by Vidya Balan in the movie 'The Dirty Picture'..entertainment..entertainment...entertainment..yhi chalta hai.. yhi bikta hai.
No doubt, from humorous skits and engaging videos and reels to relatable content, influencers have the power to make people forget their daily struggles, tensions, and anxieties. In an increasingly fast-paced world, their lighthearted approach serves as a form of escapism, providing individuals with moments of joy and respite. By bringing smiles to the faces of depressed souls, these influencers play a significant role in promoting mental well-being and fostering a positive online community.
While entertaining their audience, influencers also have the opportunity to earn a considerable income. By leveraging their online presence, they collaborate with brands and participate in paid partnerships, leading to financial prosperity. However, this success brings with it a responsibility to use their influence ethically and responsibly. As their follower count increases, so does their impact on the choices and behaviors of their audience. Influencers have a unique opportunity to promote social causes, advocate for change, and contribute to society beyond the realm of entertainment.
When an influencer shares something on social media, his or her followers pay attention, listen, and get ideas to implement in their own lives. Sometimes, whatever influencers share, the kind of content, in the form of quotes or audio-video messages, reels, and sometimes, these have the power to transform the lives of others. Brian Solis, digital analyst and author says in the regard that social media is about sociology and psychology more than technology.
Glenn Hansen says- “Put some actual ‘social’ into this professional social media.” Rather than confining influencers solely to entertainment, it is essential to acknowledge their potential as educators and inspirers. In a world flooded with information, influencers can provide valuable knowledge, insights, and opinions on a wide range of subjects. From raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting equality to sharing personal stories of triumph and perseverance, influencers have the power to influence societal ideals positively. By leveraging their platform for educational purposes, they can contribute to the growth and development of individuals and society as a whole. Educate, Inspire, and Empower!
Nation-building encompasses the collective efforts of citizens to construct a prosperous and harmonious society. In this context, influencers have the ability to play a significant role. By aligning their content with national values, promoting patriotism, spreading awareness about local issues, and actively participating in social initiatives, influencers can inspire their followers to actively engage in the betterment of their nation. Moreover, their digital presence facilitates the dissemination of important information, encourages civic participation, and fosters a sense of community.
While it is true that influencers primarily exist to entertain and bring joy to the masses, writing off their potential for social contribution and nation-building is a missed opportunity. With their significant online presence, influencers possess the power to educate, inspire, and motivate positive change. It is crucial for influencers and their followers to recognize the responsibility that comes with their fame and actively work towards using their influence for the betterment of society. By incorporating educational content, promoting important causes, and participating in nation-building activities, influencers can contribute meaningfully to human values and the progress of their nations.