Online Engagement

This paper explores the dichotomy of online engagement, highlighting the advantages and potential harms of social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. It emphasizes the negative effects such as compromised self-esteem among young users and the unchecked rise of echo chambers and the divisions which arise from them. This paper examines and advocates for the implementation of the Online Harms Act proposed by Minister Pablo Rodriguez as a necessary regulatory measure in providing legal tools for users to reclaim their autonomy and offers the opportunity to hold online platforms accountable for their malfeasance. Drawing parallels with the regulating of alcohol in establishments in the 1980s, which argues that without government intervention, society will continue to remain vulnerable to the detrimental effects of unregulated online platforms.