WINSTON WEEKLY©[1]

November 16, 2025

Vol. 3, No. 46

SOCIAL REFLECTIONS[2]

Like many writers, I limit my use of AI to avoid inaccuracies, bias, and eroding my own originality. However, in considering research regarding the impact of social media and algorithms, AI’s “simple definition” of “social” is rather enlightening: “[C]an be defined as simply as relating to society or human companionship. As an adjective, it means being friendly and enjoying the company of others, or relating to human interactions and society in general. As a noun, it can refer to a gathering or event where people come together.”

As many struggle to be enlightened in the company of others, my sense is that human interactions have shifted in the wake of forces that did not previously exist. Shaunna Litterick recently explained, “If you’ve ever hesitated before posting a photo, added a filter, or chosen a more flattering angle, you are not alone. … What begins as self-expression can quietly shift into self-presentation, shaped by what we believe will be accepted, liked, or admired.” In striving for acceptance and admiration, algorithms increasingly impact one’s preferences and relationships, including friendships.

How many of us can say that our friendships reflect the words of Gail Rogers? She said, “A true friend holds up a mirror in which we see ourselves. They are the ones who show us our strengths when all we see is weakness; they point out our good character traits, like courage and loyalty, when we are down on ourselves. They remind us of past accomplishments and spur us on in our future.” Friends are also “the people in our lives who aren’t afraid to tell us what they really think, who hold us accountable when we’re out of line. They speak the truth in love, and in the process, make us better.”

THIS WEEK’S ACTIVITY

If you use social media, reflect on whether your recent or past posts were self-expression or self-presentation. Even if you do not use social media, consider whether you are truly expressing yourself in social settings, or expressing what you believe someone else expects from you. This is also a helpful exercise for parents struggling with when to allow their child to have access to a smart phone and social media, and considering ways in which to help children cultivate healthy friendships.

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[1] A Sunday newsletter and blog by Alysen Bayles to be shared with the appropriate attribute.

[2]Resources: Andrew P. Smith, PhD and Hasah Alheneidi, PhD, The Internet and Loneliness, AMA Journal of Ethics, Nov. 2023; Gail Rogers, The Friendship Reflection, www.thelife.com; Jennie Allen, Find Your People: Building Deep Community in a Lonely World, Random House, 2022; Shauna Litterick, What the algorithm teaches you: A reflection on social media and self-worth, The British Psychological Society, Aug. 20, 2025, www.bps.org.uk