Social media, ethics and development in the postmodernist Malawian society

Abstract

The paper argues that in the postmodernist era, there is great likelihood for people to use social media networks for wrong reasons rather than for promoting “the good” as the great Greek Philosopher, Plato, would demand. This is so because the ultimate goal of a postmodernist society is a commercial one, which is chiefly characterized by a high spirit of competition and general loss of holiness. The paper observes that in a postmodernist society, the people are greatly motivated by the trendy and that there is dominance of the non-realistic aspects, which lead them to lose their sense of humanity. In most cases, the people become mechanical in their pursuit of happiness, wealth and power. At the same time, subscription to the non-realistic aspects of life compels them to be continuous seekers of knowledge. As a result, this aspect makes it possible for nations whose economies are largely knowledge based to thrive. Hence, as more and more people embrace social media, development accelerates while the people lose their long cherished sense of virtue. Thus, social media is a necessary evil in the postmodernist era. After all, the end justifies the means.

Key words: postmodernism, the queer, hyperreality, sublimation, de-individuation