Social Media: Increasingly Becoming a Forum of Anomie

In recent times, social media has become a closely linked part of our daily lives. Social media is an effective and powerful platform for sharing thoughts and information and shaping public discourse. But nowadays, it increasingly feels like these platforms are turning into hubs of obscenity, disorder, and intolerance. Whenever an issue arises, instead of decent and meaningful discussion, what dominates is personal attacks, character assassination, and hateful expressions—especially toward women. Constructive dialogue is often drowned out by negativity.

Not only that, there has been a surge in the misuse of AI tools to create manipulated visuals and videos, often intended to defame individuals. These practices have made online spaces even more toxic and unsafe.

Recently, a video that has gone viral on social media highlights this troubling trend. In that video, a young girl named Amisha Parajuli, was seen expressing her political views publicly on the street. She talks about the recent arrest of former Prime Minister and CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli. She calls Oli’s arrest unconstitutional and vindictive. Those who dislike Oli or his opponents have taken to social media to make personal allegations toward her. Meanwhile, She openly shared her beliefs and support, a natural right in a democratic society. Yet, instead of engaging with her ideas, people targeted her personally. Her voice, appearance, and expressions became the subject of deeply obscene, abusive, and even violent comments. Some remarks were so disturbing that they called into question the very foundation of human decency.

Now, social media feels unbearable to scroll through. It seems as though algorithms have disrupted the very rhythm of social tolerance. Even on meaningful topics, people inject toxicity and vulgarity into discussions. As a result, many users are now choosing to disable comment sections altogether. This raises an important question: Why are we becoming so intolerant and chaotic?

“When social norms, values, and moral guidelines weaken or break down, individuals experience a sense of normlessness—an anomie, in fact. In such a state, people lose a clear sense of what is acceptable behavior, leading to deviance and disorder.” Sociologist Émile Durkheim argued this in his famous theory of anomie.

According to his theory, today’s social media reflects a kind of digital anomie. Traditional social controls—such as face-to-face accountability, community judgment, and shared moral standards—are significantly weakened online. People operate in environments where boundaries are unclear, consequences are minimal, and behavior is rarely checked in real time. As a result, many users feel free to cross ethical limits, engage in abuse, and normalize indecency.

Trivializing rape or claiming one should commit is a criminal mindset. This reflects a state of digital anomie, where accountability is weak and boundaries are blurred. It creates an environment where abuse and immorality can easily thrive. It is now imperative for the state, policymakers, and all stakeholders to take this seriously and act.

One major reason for this is the misuse of anonymity. Many users operate under hidden or fake identities, which reduces their sense of accountability. When people do not have to face the direct consequences of their actions, they are more likely to cross ethical boundaries. This lack of responsibility reinforces the condition of anomie, where norms lose their power to regulate behavior.

Another factor is the influence of algorithms. Social media platforms tend to promote content that generates high engagement—likes, shares, and comments. Unfortunately, controversial, sensational, and negative content often attracts the most attention. This creates an environment where extreme behavior reigns, further weakening social norms and encouraging more deviant expressions.

A third reason is growing political polarization. Society is becoming increasingly divided along ideological lines. But ideology itself becomes a casualty when the pursuit of ideology does not tolerate the “opposite crew.” People often treat those with opposing views as enemies rather than fellow participants in the same process. In such a fragmented environment, shared values erode, deepening the sense of anomie and replacing respectful debate with hostility.

The lack of digital literacy is another critical issue. Many users are not adequately aware of responsible online behavior—what is appropriate to say, how to engage in discussions, or how to express disagreement constructively. Freedom of expression does not mean the freedom to insult, harass, or incite violence, yet this distinction is often ignored.

Additionally, rising frustration and dissatisfaction within society—economic, social, and political—find an outlet on social media. According to Durkheim, such instability can intensify anomie, as individuals feel disconnected from social norms and more prone to expressing anger in destructive ways.

What can be done?

First, self-discipline at the individual level is essential. Every user should consider the impact of their words before posting. Disagreement is natural, but it must be expressed with respect and civility. Secondly, digital literacy must be strengthened. Education systems should include lessons on responsible digital behavior from an early age, helping rebuild a shared understanding of acceptable conduct—even in virtual spaces. Additionally, social media platforms must take greater responsibility. They need clear policies and stronger enforcement mechanisms to curb hate speech and harmful content, thereby restoring some form of social regulation.

Ultimately, social media is a reflection of society itself. If tolerance, respect, and constructive dialogue are weakening in society, it is only natural for the same to be visible online. Durkheim’s idea of anomie reminds us that when norms collapse, disorder follows—whether in physical communities or digital ones.

If we truly take pride in living in a democratic society, we must understand the true meaning of freedom of expression and learn to use it responsibly. Otherwise, the danger is not just that social media will become chaotic and obscene—but that society itself will follow.

Author Asmita K.C., Sub-editor at Deshsanchar, holds a master’s degree in Sociology and writes on Society, Culture, Literature, Politics, and Gender issues.