A faculty seminar titled 'Reading Society Through the Eyes of Media' was organized by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of Üsküdar Üniversitesi. Milliyet Newspaper Editor-in-Chief Journalist Özay Şendir participated as a speaker in the seminar. Şendir drew attention to the role of social media in the modern consumption cycle, stating that these platforms, instead of fully satisfying individuals, drag them into a continuous consumption spiral.
The event took place at Üsküdar Üniversitesi South Campus, E Block, Socrates Hall.
Social media drags into a consumption spiral…
Milliyet Newspaper Editor-in-Chief Özay Şendir drew attention to the role of social media in the modern consumption cycle, stating that these platforms, instead of fully satisfying individuals, drag them into a continuous consumption spiral. Referring to the contradictions between traditional journalism, social media, and artificial intelligence, Şendir noted that this conflict has led to numerous legal cases in the West. He particularly stated that messages spread on social media with limited characters make it impossible for individuals to understand each other; while a theme of unhappiness dominates platforms like X, an artificial sense of happiness is created on Instagram. Şendir emphasized that such contradictory representations lead individuals away from their perception of reality.
It has become a medium where false and fake news spreads rapidly
Continuing his speech, Şendir stated that social media pushes people into a passive attitude towards problems, and the reactions given there usually do not lead to a concrete outcome. Şendir reminded that in the past, journalists informed politicians about social issues by reporting them, but today, social media has become a medium where false and fake news spreads rapidly. Şendir expressed that society in the past acted with feelings of love and belonging, whereas today individuals display a more hate-focused attitude, and this situation has gained a prominent place in social life.
Journalists should approach events objectively
In his speech, Şendir also touched upon the ethical values of the journalism profession, stating that journalists should approach events objectively, not subjectively. Şendir expressed that journalism is a discipline based on seeking the truth and that in olden times, this profession was not limited to news on paper but was also a product of an ethical understanding. Reminding that emotions were dominant in past films and music, Şendir stated that today everything is handled mechanically and emotionlessly, emphasizing that it is becoming increasingly important for people to remember their feelings.
The event concluded after participants' questions were answered.
