Special lecture on impact of social media on society

Chandigarh, November 25, 2019: Department of Sociology, Panjab University in collaboration with Population Research Centre organized a special lecture by Dr.Harmesh Kumar, a licenced psychologist with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, USA on Impact of Social Media on Society. He emphasized that social media influences the individuals in both positive and negative ways. It may have brought the world together and also made the people more aware about events throughout the world but it has also resulted in isolation and alienation among individuals especially the elderly. He highlighted that in US the social media also tried to influence the public in a wrong way during election times resulting in passing false information. Thus it is responsible for creating falsehood among individuals making it hard to have good relations with all. Dr. Rani Mehta, Chairperson commented that social media caused more stress as it brought in the agony of trolls and bad comments which created mental health issues for people. Mr. Vinod Kumar, Assistant Professor stated that communication gap is the major concern in today’s world due to presence of social media. Mr. Dishant, Research Scholar questioned the weak emotional levels of individuals in today’s society and how to overcome these. The lecture was very thought provoking and enriching and was well received by all. Prof Kiran Preet Kaur, Honorary Director was also present on the occasion. The lecture was followed by healthy discussion with the audience which consisted of faculty members and students from Sociology Department.