The Lens of the Diffusion Theory

 Scrolling Through Innovation 

In a world where social media is practically woven into the fabric of daily life, it might seem odd to say, "I'm not on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter." But that decision did not come from rebellion or nostalgia. It came from weighing the pros and cons of powerful innovation, something Everett Rogers would call a classic case of "Diffusion of Innovation." 

Roger's theory breaks down how new technologies spread, and how people adopt them in waves. First come the pioneers, the curious experimenters who love to try something new. Then the early adopters are respected opinion leaders who often set trends. Next is the early majority, practical and deliberate. Then the late majority is more skeptical and cautious. Finally, the laggards, who resist change and prefer traditions. 

When platforms like Facebook and Twitter launched, they offered a clear relative advantage over older ways of communication. You could share updates with everyone at once, keep up with friends, build a following, or promote your work, all from your phone. Social media was also highly compatible with modern lifestyles. The learning curve was minimal, and trying it out was easy and free. Plus, the results were immediate and visible: likes, comments, shares. 

Joining Social Media Platforms

I joined for the same reasons many did. At first, it was about staying in touch. Then, it became a tool for self-expression, community, and professional growth. Social media helps me keep up with trends, discover ideas, promote work, and connect with people. It is empowering in many ways. 

But even as an adopter, I see the downsides. The constant scrolling can be mentally exhausting. The comparison trap is real. Algorithms often prioritize outrage, drama, or shallow content. And there is the darker side, including misinformation, echo chambers, privacy concerns, and the addictive pull of endless notifications.

So, while I am on social media, I am not on it without hesitation. I have had to create boundaries, like limiting my screen time, curating my feeds, and being intentional about how I engage. It is crucial to weigh the innovation's value against its consequences, not just blindly following the crowd. 

Final Thoughts

The key to living with new technology is that you do not have to reject it entirely or embrace it uncritically. You can adopt it thoughtfully, adapt over time, and ask, "Is this still working for me?" Social media, like any innovation, is not inherently good or bad. It is a tool and, like any tool, it depends on how you use it. I am here for the connection, the ideas, and the inspiration. But I am also here with my eyes open.