Embracing Authenticity: The Power of Unfiltered Content in the Social Media Era

By: Jared Sacks, Seasonal Public Relations Intern | Digital4Good

Is social media a platform for genuine expression or a hotbed of irresponsible behavior? Once regarded as a space to connect with loved ones and share authentic moments, social media is now rife with controversy, scandals and ethical dilemmas. From influencers to everyday users, the rise of unapologetic behavior has left many questioning our role as consumers and participants in this digital realm.

Let's dive into the heart of this debate and explore the ethical complexities surrounding social media's shift toward authenticity.

Social Media and Reality

Since COVID-19, social media has become the go-to channel for communication and connection. The anonymity provided by social media platforms encourages users to speak more candidly about their opinions and personal struggles. With people growing more and more comfortable online, the line between social media and reality is blurring. This manifests in the form of “de-influencing” and the sharing of unedited, unscripted content.

Prioritizing Authenticity

The emergence of "de-influencing" marks a significant shift in the influencer marketing landscape. Influencers like skincare expert Genuine Glow are leading the movement by prioritizing honesty and transparency over marketability and monetization. 

Informed by their personal experiences with products, “de-influencers” give candid reviews of popular items and share advice on affordable alternatives. This trend resonates deeply with authenticity seekers who demand honesty from the content creators they follow. 

As authenticity becomes increasingly valued in the digital sphere, influencers and content creators are embracing their true selves, challenging traditional standards of perfection, and reshaping the way audiences engage with online content.

Celebrating Imperfection

The rise of “de-influencing” has contributed to a broader culture of unapologetic content creation, where individuals feel empowered to express themselves authentically without fear of judgment or consequences. 

This is seen on social media platforms like TikTok, where imperfection is celebrated through features such as “TikTok Now.” Here, users are encouraged to share unedited, unscripted moments from their daily lives, capturing the raw essence of the human experience.

The shift towards authenticity fosters a sense of genuine connection and relatability among users, as they embrace their true selves without the pressure of perfection. In some cases, however, users will take the trend too far, becoming careless about the content they create and share.

How Much Is Too Much?

As more and more individuals share unfiltered aspects of their lives, they run the risk of perpetuating harmful norms and behaviors. Content creators may inadvertently glorify and normalize problematic behavior, potentially leading to the reinforcement of unrealistic standards and the promotion of harmful ideologies. In an interview with Vox, Ysabel Gerrard, a senior lecturer in digital communication, commented, “You do need to go into these things with a healthy degree of skepticism and think, ‘What was the motivation behind that?’ There’s a lot of discourse around the weaponization of tears, especially in terms of race. There are forms of intimacy that are not innocent.” 

Navigating a New Social Media Age

As we navigate these changes, it is crucial to remember the responsibility we hold as creators and consumers of online content. While the rise of authenticity and unfiltered expression can foster genuine connections, it is equally important to approach this trend with care and mindfulness. Let's embrace the power of authenticity while recognizing the impact of our actions on ourselves and our communities. 

For more advice on media literacy, connect with us on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook.