Social media’s relationship with politics: Your thoughts

We asked Denver Post readers and Facebook followers to answer the following: “When it comes to public policy and politics, has social media been successful? Empowering? Disgraceful? Disruptive? A mix? And where do we go from here?” Here is a sample of their answers.

It’s a bit of a mixed bag. The great thing about social media is it lets anyone, anywhere share what’s on their mind. The bad thing about social media is it lets anyone, anywhere share what’s on their mind. Ryan Robertson, via Facebook

It has been a combination of [empowering] and a waste. So many seem to think by posting their thoughts on FB, Twitter, etc, they have impacted public policy. No, getting involved in your local political community makes the most difference. Votes matter and they start at the local level. Do not expect to just post something on Facebook or show up at a “protest” outside city hall to make a difference. Trey Wren, via Facebook

Double edged sword … opens communication, but creates deeper division simultaneously. Coupled with divisive rhetoric coming from ALL political sides is a recipe for an eternally divided nation. via Facebook

Social media (via the internet), has set us back decades, or generations when it comes to civil rights and democracy. There is simply no accountability for what is posted, therefore popular lies flourish easily. Jonathan Hibbert, via Facebook