Social media thrives on division. Spirituality requires connection
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Recently, while waiting in my doctor’s office, I scrolled through my Facebook feed and stumbled upon a meme that read: “All this arguing over my invisible man is more important than your invisible man.” It struck me how social media amplifies access to a wide range of opinions, judgments, and conspiracy theories—entangling us in trends, social causes, and mass movements, sometimes at the expense of our spiritual well-being.
More often than not, social media lures us away from what truly matters: inner peace and spiritual growth. The meme I encountered had over 3,000 likes, illustrating the appeal of divisive content. When we immerse ourselves in the toxic “us vs. them” mindset, we risk losing sight of personal introspection—something essential to any spiritual journey.
Faith thrives in an environment of reflection and conviction. Yet, exposure to differing viewpoints can shake our foundations. Seeing others on social media living seemingly fulfilling lives based on different beliefs may lead us to question our own convictions. While introspection can be beneficial, the curated nature of online content often distorts reality, making secular success appear as the ultimate aspiration.
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Social media can also erode faith by flooding our feeds with negativity, including:
- Pornography that distorts intimacy,
- Divisive political rhetoric that fuels anxiety and fear,
- Unrealistic comparisons with seemingly perfect lives,
- Discrimination and online harassment,
- Manipulative content designed to increase consumerism,
- Sensationalized media coverage that fosters fear.
As many have observed, this constant exposure has led to unprecedented levels of dissatisfaction and hopelessness. One of social media’s most profound effects is how it distances us from real-life experiences and meaningful human connections.
The addictive nature of social media encourages endless scrolling, numbing our senses and overwhelming our minds. This distraction inhibits self-reflection, a cornerstone of spiritual growth. Instead of confronting our emotions and understanding our personal narratives, we become consumed by an external world that does little to nourish our inner selves.
Rather than turning inward, many—especially younger generations—seek validation from virtual strangers. The quest for meaning and purpose, fundamental to human existence, cannot be found on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook.
Although some social media accounts promote positivity and self-love, their messages often feel prescriptive rather than liberating. The pressure to conform to certain lifestyles or belief systems stifles true spiritual exploration. Meanwhile, “cancel culture” and other so-called progressive movements discourage open discussions about spirituality. Fear of backlash prevents many from expressing their beliefs, resulting in a superficial understanding of more profound existential questions.
To assess social media’s role in your spiritual life, ask yourself:
- Am I prioritizing my spiritual health with my heart, time, and energy?
- Does my sense of identity and validation stem from my beliefs and values or from online popularity?
- Do I allow social media to distract me from meaningful connections with those around me?
It is important to remember that social media is not inherently harmful to spirituality. There are many inspiring voices online that encourage meaning, creativity, and personal growth. The key is to curate your digital experience so that it aligns with your values and aspirations.
Navigating the intersection of social media and spirituality requires mindfulness. Practising self-awareness—both online and offline—helps us determine when social media serves us and when it detracts from our personal growth.
Regular self-reflection is crucial. Whether through journaling, meditation, or simply being present, intentional self-exploration counterbalances social media’s distractions and fosters a deeper connection to spirituality.
Ultimately, spirituality is about finding meaning, acceptance, and connection in our lives. If approached with intention and care, it can be nurtured both online and offline. Consciously reducing social media’s influence on your spiritual life requires mindful choices—ones that lead to a better understanding of yourself and the world around you.
As you navigate the digital landscape, remember that spiritually aware individuals lead happier, more fulfilled lives. Protecting your spiritual journey in an era of distraction is vital. The path to a more meaningful existence is shaped by your choices—both online and offline. Choose wisely.
Nick Kossovan, a self-described connoisseur of human psychology, writes about what’s on his mind from Toronto.
Explore more on Social media, Cancel culture, Spiritualism, Religion, Coercive progressivism
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