When viewing opinions and debates about trending topics in social media forums, in podcasts, and in video format, there are a few things that are clear

if you examine them unbiasedly. First, there is a high degree of tribalism in online culture. This should not be a surprise considering the debates between nationalists and globalists or progressives and conservatives in the news. It is like rival sports teams whose players are all-in on just hating each other during and immediately after the game and fans who are so passionate or obsessed that they will not congregate with the other team’s fans because that would be treason. However, it is not like sports fanatics. There are people that literally believe it is treason intellectually, politically, culturally, and socially.

Second, is that the debate is at such a point where neither side wants to listen to the other. The opposing sides think the other is 100% wrong and 100% bad. There are no redeeming qualities or saving grace. No redemption and nothing to be gained by looking at the other group’s point of view. If you watch, read, or look at the content that is contributed to the discussion it is hard to see the gray in it. If you stay within the boundaries of the one group, the views are cascading and amplifying.

Third, there is little in the way of acceptable or appropriate action that is suggested. Instead of offering public policy proposals, relationship steps that can actually be implemented, or workable advice in any given area there are a large number of commentators that are just there to agitate and further exacerbate the negative versus trying to find a positive. There is no way both sides can compromise and find a solution where they both can win. No, the other side needs to lose and they need to be reminded of it regularly.

Finally, which is the chicken and which is the egg in this debate? Does social media actually mirror what is happening in culture and in society or is it the catalyst for how disagreements are actually being debated?