Tik Tok’s role in the Hamas conflict serves as an important reminder for Thailand

[reader]

This strikes me not just a concern for Thailand but for all countries.

From Thai Enquirer 

By Arun Saronchai

The potential of platforms like TikTok to shape the perceptions and opinions of young people has become a pressing concern for nations across the globe. Thailand, with its unique geopolitical position and societal values, is not immune to these influences. It becomes imperative, then, to consider how we, as a nation, must approach the regulation of such platforms to safeguard our youth from external narratives that could skew their understanding of complex international issues.

The controversy surrounding TikTok in the United States over allegations that the platform promotes pro-Palestinian content over pro-Israeli narratives offers a cautionary tale. While the freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic societies, there is a fine line between freedom and the potential manipulation of information. The algorithmic amplification of certain viewpoints, irrespective of their veracity, can lead to a lopsided understanding of sensitive topics such as the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The implications for Thailand are significant. Our youth, increasingly engaged on platforms like TikTok, are exposed to a barrage of content from across the globe. Given Thailand’s delicate position between major powers like China and the United States, the information consumed by our younger generations can have profound implications on their perspectives and, by extension, our nation’s future stance on international matters.

It is not a matter of censoring voices or stifling dialogue but ensuring a balanced representation of issues on platforms known for their powerful algorithms that cater to engagement rather than accuracy. The concern is not unfounded; the echo chambers created by social media algorithms can reinforce one-sided narratives and can be particularly potent when it comes to international conflicts where historical context and nuanced understanding are essential.

Consider the recent online discourse surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. If Thai youth were to receive an imbalanced view, heavily leaning toward one side due to algorithmic biases, it would not only misinform them but could also sow seeds of division within our society, which prides itself on harmony and unity. The need to foster critical thinking and digital literacy among our young cannot be overstated, enabling them to discern the nuances of such complex issues.

Furthermore, with Thailand’s own history of navigating its relationships with global superpowers, the unchecked influence of a foreign-owned app like TikTok could inadvertently sway public opinion in ways that may not align with our national interests or foreign policy objectives. This is especially pertinent given the geopolitical tug-of-war between China, with its vested interests in TikTok, and the United States, with whom we have longstanding diplomatic ties.

Moderating TikTok use is not about diminishing the voice of the youth or their access to global conversations. It is about equipping them with the tools to critically evaluate the information they consume and understand the agendas that may lie beneath the surface of trending content. It is about preserving the integrity of our national discourse and ensuring that external platforms do not become the arbiters of our national narrative.

In implementing moderation, a multifaceted approach is warranted. Education systems must integrate media literacy into curriculums, helping students understand how algorithms work and the ways in which they can be manipulated. Parents and guardians must be informed and involved, guiding young users as they navigate the complexities of online content. Government oversight, though a more contentious issue, must be considered within the framework of national security and public interest.

It is equally important to foster an environment where Thai youth can express themselves and engage with global issues without reliance on a single platform. Encouraging the growth of domestic digital ecosystems that uphold our values and standards can offer alternatives to international platforms, ensuring that the flow of information aligns with our cultural and national principles.

While it may seem daunting, the moderation of TikTok use among Thai youth is not an insurmountable task. It requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society—government, educators, parents, and the tech community—to come together in crafting a response that is thoughtful, measured, and reflective of our collective will to protect the integrity of our nation’s future.

As we tread the fine line between open exchange and the protection of our youth from manipulative content, the case of TikTok’s influence in the U.S. serves as a timely reminder. It highlights the urgency with which we must act to ensure our youth are informed, critical thinkers who can engage with the world without being swayed by the unseen currents of algorithmic influence. It is a challenge that we, as a society, must rise to meet with wisdom, foresight, and a steadfast commitment to our national sovereignty and the well-being of our younger generations.

[PeterRS]

i have stated before on this forum that i regard 'social media' as 'unsocial media'. Have an argument in a pub and the vast majority of people have an open and frank discussion with differing views being aired without fists being used. It's not just TikTok. Most social media platforms allow for expression of views without any regard whatever for a discussion. Almost all of what can be written is rarely moderated or moderated too late. Of course in the right hands social media can be a very useful and productive tool. The problem as I see it is that more and more ordinary people - not just the bad actors - use it believing their views are gospel.