One vote doesn’t seem like much. On its own, it hardly matters at all. But if you think of yourself as part of something bigger — America, let’s say — then that one vote can make a difference. Many votes together can change the course of history. If you don’t make good use of your vote, you enable those who would abuse our ideals to come into power, maintain control, and destroy what we value.
Facebook is no different. You might be one person with just one account, but you are not powerless. Being a part of Mark Zuckerberg’s algorithmic empire is a choice. If you believe that Facebook is causing long-term damage to our society, and you don’t agree with their values or their approach to doing business, you can choose to leave.
I left Facebook under two years ago, but I remained trapped in Zuck’s hell on earth. Instagram and Whatsapp had a major control on me for some stupid reasons. No more. I disagree with the company, and its leaders so much that I won’t spend any of my attention or energy on its platforms. My mother will have to actually call me on the phone. My friends will have to email me. And you will have to come to my homestead on the Internet to see my photos and visuals.
I have made my choice, and I encourage you to make yours. If you disagree with Facebook and its policies, leave. You might be one account, but if you are one among millions, you will make a difference. Let go of the need for traffic or attention that has kept you coming back to the hell on earth that is Facebook. While you are at it, get off Instagram, and use something other than WhatsApp. Otherwise, you are just endorsing Zuck’s way of doing business — and it is a dirty business.
June 2, 2020. San Francisco
PS: I have written so much about Facebook and its evil ways that I feel exhausted and tired of repeating myself. If anything, the events of the last week have further clarified to the average observer that evil lurks inside the executive offices of that company. Here are two articles on Facebook that are worth reading.
Facebook and the folly of self-regulation [Wired]
Dear Facebook Employees [Barry Schnitt, former PR at Facebook]
Zuck doesn’t get it. And never will. [The Washington Post]