As councilman, it is my primary duty to safeguard the well-being and security of Garwood. This responsibility extends beyond the mere physical; it encompasses the health of our community discourse and the integrity of our public square. In recent times, we have observed a disheartening trend where debate and discussion is tainted by the underhanded tactics of intimidation and harassment on social media.
Social media, while a tool of immense potential for connectivity and information sharing has increasingly become not a public square, but rather a combat arena. These platforms are not neutral. They are “outrage machines”, inherently unsuited for thoughtful discussion and debate. Its algorithms are designed to amplify sensational content, prioritizing engagement over accuracy or nuance. This digital environment is fertile ground for misinformation and conflict, as it rewards quick, emotional reactions over calm reflection and deep thought. In this environment, harassment and histrionic behaviors thrive, thus damaging a community’s civics and democratic norms. Not pluralism, but monism. Not deliberation, but noise. Not resolution, but combat.
Much like a noisy neighbor disrupting community peace with relentless music, unchecked barking dogs, or loud arguments, social media noise similarly erodes communal bonds. It’s vital to differentiate between those seeking answers and accountability and internet bullies. The former aims for resolution and positive change, while the latter fluctuates between aggression and victimhood, targeting others in the community. In the cacophony of social media, where instant reactions drown out genuine understanding, the art of true listening fades. Speaking is effortless, yet true listening has become a lost art. After all, we are better listeners than talkers; we have two ears and one mouth for a reason. Our evolutionary history prioritized listening, a skill developed long before humans ever uttered their first words, and even a newborn learns to listen before articulating its first words, underscoring our innate predisposition towards active reflection.
Furthermore, recent assaults on our fire department volunteers have aggravated the situation, escalating risks, and compromising our communal safety. This aggression not only erodes the essence of volunteerism and community service, but also raises the specter of service gaps and significant disparities in our town’s critical services, endangering the safety and lives of our citizens. During my campaign, I met numerous individuals who voiced their worries about the toxic discourse prevalent on Facebook and the potential harassment from community members should they choose to engage in our town’s civic activities. This represents a significant loss for both our town and the overall health of our community.
Finally, transitioning from the virtual realm to foster a more vibrant public square doesn’t equate to reduced scrutiny for elected officials. In fact, it implies the opposite: greater scrutiny, enhanced dialogue, more conflict, and increased accountability for those of us in public service. This shift encourages a broader segment of our town’s residents to participate in meaningful conversations and inspires more individuals to consider running for office. (I particularly disdain the notion of uncontested primaries; they’re fundamentally undemocratic, and I say this as someone who is facing election this year and who is most likely running uncontested.)
In conclusion, the overwhelming flow of information, harassment, and noise on social media platforms stifles the possibility for meaningful, constructive dialogue, resulting in a public that becomes disengaged, overwhelmed, and apathetic. As we endeavor to create a public square fit for the 21st century, our focus should be on fostering constructive and respectful dialogue that propels our community forward.
Sean Keagan Foley Garwood Councilman
