It's Time to Logout.

Social networks have made it easier for users to participate in the process of aiding disaster victims with a simple click of the mouse. Just one Tumblr reblog, Twitter retweet or Facebook like and the user gets to donate some amount via the source institution, the one which started it all. Laudable effort for providing social network users the convenience of aiding in the comfort of their homes.

However, does it really benefit those who should benefit from it? 

I don’t think so.

First, some of these source institutions use the scheme primarily to market themselves. You can’t blame them. Aside from the promotion and buzz they generate from the social network activity, they also gain goodwill from users since they cast themselves in positive light. Thus, they may benefit more than the victims they are supposedly helping.

Actually, the pronounced humanitarian goal of aid often takes a backseat to ulterior self-seeking motives. Disaster victims become victimized yet again since they don’t receive the help they should have been given in the first place.

Moreover, social network users get the short end of the stick as well. One might be able to argue that the scheme paves the way for more people to help because they are able to contribute even in the comforts of their own home. However, it’s the same comfort which voids the act of its most integral aspects, personal connection and interaction. Instead of empowering them to become more disposed to helping others even in their own communities, they shall be deluded to settle for help via social networks which, in my opinion, is deficient and depersonalized.

Thus, help because you really want to help. Don’t do it just because there’s something in it for you. Helping others entails total abandonment of one’s self-interest, giving utmost priority to others’ needs and personal connection and interaction which make such act so preciously human.

You may still reblog, retweet or like something the next time you encounter such scheme. However, remember that you can help so much more if only you log out for a while and live with those who need you most.

source: webhole.net