speech on social media is boon or bane

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• Speech Writing /

Social Media Bane Or Boon? Short and Long Speech for Students

• Updated on  
• Nov 7, 2023

Social Media Bane or Boon: We open our cell phones and search for something, say a restaurant or coffee shop. Within seconds, all our questions are answered. This is the power of social media , where we get to know any and every information across the world. Sitting in an Asian country, we can easily find out what’s happening in South America or any other continent. But as they say, as long as there is light, there will be shadows also. Social media is also like that. It does offer us several benefits and serves as a fundamental tool for the modern world, but it also has several drawbacks. Let’s understand why the concept of Social Media Bane or Boon is so popular these days.

Table of Contents

• 1 10 Lines on Social Media Bane or Boon
• 2 1-Short Speech on Social Media Bane or Boon
• 3 Long Speech on Social Media Bane or Book
• 4 Popular Quotes and Slogans on Social Media Bane or Boon

Also Read: Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media

10 Lines on Social Media Bane or Boon

Here are 10 lines on social media bane or boon.

• Excessive use of social media has resulted in a decline in face-to-face interactions, leading to a sense of isolation and disconnection in society.
• Social media has empowered marginalized communities to voice their opinions and advocate for social justice and equality.
• False information on social media creates confusion and societal discord.
• Social media platforms have facilitated the spread of information and ideas, fostering global awareness and activism.
• Social media has facilitated online learning and education, providing access to a vast array of resources and knowledge.
• Social media creates the fear of mission out (FOMO).
• India has the highest number of social media users, approximately 550 million.
• Social media has helped people connect with others living in a far-off country.
• More than 100 million businesses are flourishing on social media.
• Social media offers immense knowledge, from the evolution of the world to the present day.

Also Read: Social Media Giving Day 2023  

1-Short Speech on Social Media Bane or Boon

‘I greet you all present here. I’m here to present a short speech on Social Media Bane or Boon. We are all connected to social media, directly or indirectly. Social media has transformed the traditional way we communicate, share information, and connect with the world around us. However, social media has a dual nature, which we must not neglect. 

We all know that social media platforms operate as powerful tools for facilitating global awareness, promoting businesses, and enabling rapid communication during emergencies. It has created opportunities for individuals to express themselves, share their stories, and find communities that resonate with their interests and values.

But, the pervasive nature of social media has led to the rise of various concerns. Incidents like the dissemination of misinformation, fake news, cyberbullying, online harassment, etc. have brought the darker side of social media to the surface. These negative aspects have a profound impact on our mental health and societal well-being.’

Also Read: Speech on The Best Day of My Life  

Long Speech on Social Media Bane or Book

‘I welcome you all present here. Allow me to present myself on Speech on Social Media Bane or Boon. Social Media has become an integral part of our everyday lives. What’s going on around the world can all be figured out in seconds on the social media platforms. But social media is not meant for everyone and not everyone can operate it.

That was just one side of social media, for there is another, which must not be neglected. The increase in fake news, misinformation, and online scams has underscored the need for critical thinking and digital literacy to discern the authenticity of information shared on these platforms.

The addictive nature of social media leads to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and social isolation among users, highlighting the importance of fostering a healthy balance between online engagement and real-life interactions.

Social media’s algorithms create echo chambers, which reinforce our existing beliefs and perspectives while limiting exposure to diverse viewpoints, leading to heightened polarization and a decreased willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and compromise.

At last, the bane and boon of social media must be understood in equal measure to ensure a healthy and responsible digital environment, promote digital literacy, and encourage mindful and balanced use of these platforms.

Sometimes using social media is very simple; we open an application and search for any information or a product. Social media has allowed us to express ourselves, share our stories, and engage in meaningful dialogues.

There is no doubt that social media has democratized the flow of information, allowing marginalized communities to voice their concerns, advocate for social justice, and catalyze movements for positive change. 

Social media platforms have transformed the dynamics of business and marketing, providing organizations with an unprecedented opportunity to reach a vast audience and promote their products and services. 

Also Read: World Social Media Day

Popular Quotes and Slogans on Social Media Bane or Boon

Here are some popular quotes or slogans on social media bane or boon. Feel free to use them anywhere.

‘Real Connections, Not Just Reactions: Navigating Social Media Wisely.’

‘From Likes to Real Life: Embracing the True Meaning of Connection.’

‘Online Empowerment, Offline Engagement: Harnessing the Power of Social Media.’

‘Filtering Facts, Fighting Fake News: Unveiling the Truth Behind the Posts.’

‘Beyond the Screen: Cultivating Relationships That Transcend Social Media.’

Ans: The bane and boon concept has been highlighted by debate competitions. Social media Bane signifies something that causes negative sides of using it, which causes distress, harm, or ruin. Boon refers to the positive sides of social media, which are beneficial, advantageous, or favorable.

Ans: Social media platforms facilitate instant communication and connectivity, serve as a vital tool for sharing information, and news, offer businesses a powerful platform for marketing their products and services, and enable the creation of communities and networks based on shared interests, values, and goals. Also, Social media is an excellent platform for educational services.

Ans: Cyberbullying, online harassment, the spread of misinformation and false news, privacy breaches, data leaks, and increased rates of depression, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, due to its excessive use, are some of the major drawbacks of social media.

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Shiva Tyagi

With an experience of over a year, I've developed a passion for writing blogs on wide range of topics. I am mostly inspired from topics related to social and environmental fields, where you come up with a positive outcome.

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Essay on Social Media – Boon or Bane

Social Media gives us the chance of sharing information and is a way of connectivity. It has not only attracted many of also, became a big source of entertainment. Many people love spending time on social media and many don’t. Some become rags to riches and some face vice versa. This creates two ideologies about social media which say the boon and the bane. Social media can be a good platform for many but, at the same time, it has its own cons too.

Short and Long Essay on Social Media – Boon or Bane in English

Here are variety of essays that mention the pros and cons of social media.

10 Lines Essay on Social Media – Boon or Bane (100 – 120 Words)

1) Social media are tools using which users can share their pictures, views, thoughts, etc.

2) It is a great platform to keep everyone virtually connected.

3) Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, YouTube, WhatsApp, etc are some social media platforms.

4) In 1997, Six Degrees was launched as the very first social networking site.

5) Social media is good way to keep entertained.

6) It keeps you updated with what’s going in the world.

7) With social media, distance is just a word as we can virtually connect to anyone.

8) Spending much more time on social media is injurious to your health.

9) People can easily be the victim of social frauds and crimes.

10) Social media separates you from reality.

Short Essay on Social Media – Boon or Bane (200 – 250 Words)

Social media is a name that is everyone aware of. In simple words, we can define social media as a platform that allows users to share photos, videos, texts or communicate through messages or calls. A lot of exciting features are available on social media due to which people especially the young generations are more attracted towards it.

In 1997, the first social media platform by the name Six Degrees was launched; gradually other platforms came into existence. Some famous social media platforms that encounter a large number of users today are Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, etc.

Social media is a great way of entertainment, more than half of its users are here for the same purpose. Others can use it as a source of information. News in social media is spread like fire. Moreover, social media is a boon for business purposes. One can promote its product or service on social media in an effective way. Apart from these, today people from different places can connect with each other. This is possible only because of social media.

But social media is also a great source of spreading fake news. People are now addicted to social media which in turn can affect their health. Cybercrimes, online bullying, security, and privacy issues represent its dark side.

Long Essay on Social Media: Boon or Bane (1500 Words)

Introduction

Social media is a vital part of our lives and it can be understood in such a way that an average person spends around 2 and a half hours on social media per day. Currently, the social media population is around 4 billion who are active. From Facebook to Instagram, social media has its roots.

People get so much indulged in this that they forget many things. However, some people use it in such a way that it can be used to grow businesses and share information. Social Media has also turned out to be one of the platforms that give people the opportunity to grow in a big way. People gain popularity and become influencers. This inspires many people to get popular and promote products. It is indeed requirements in today’s era that how people are utilizing social media.

What is Social Media?

While talking about the definition of social media, we can get many social media definitions and everyone has their own. Social Media is basically a web-based platform that allows people, join, communicate, and share their ideas, thoughts and beliefs. The forms of sharing can include texts, images and videos. People who are on social media are called users. The way of sharing is known as posts.

People from different parts of the world come on social media and connects with each other in order to understand other people’s cultures and ways of living. Users have the access to see what they want to see and raise the issue of whatever happening around the globe. There are considerably many types of social media platforms according to usage. Among all of them, 4 are majorly talked and discussed and they are mentioned below-

• Social Networking Sites, which allow to post in texts, photos and videos.
• Image sharing – These sites allow users to share images and sometimes message.
• Video Sharing – They are meant to upload and post video contents as YouTube does.
• Blogging – Users post hefty content giving opinions or explaining texts with a touch of graphics.

A Brief History of Social Media

Social Media has now billions of users. But the things were not as we see them today. Social Media however gained popularity in past few years and it has some past. From the beginning, people were unaware of what actually is social media. To make friends and connect people with each other a platform called Six Degrees. It allowed users to create profiles and make friends. It was launched in the year 1997 and shut down in 2001.

Following the footsteps of Six Degrees, Freindster came out in the market in the year 2002. 2002 noticed the launches of LinkedIn and MySpace. The big rise in social media was seen in the year 2008 when Facebook surpassed MySpace as the most viewed site in the world. However, Facebook was initially limited to Harvard Students when launched in 2004. Youtube was launched in 2005, Instagram came in 2010 and Snapchat made existence in the year 2011.

Advantages of Social Media

Social Media platforms can be useful in many ways. They can popularize people within no time. Can help you grow your business. Many people love social media in such a way that it can provide information at the same time it can entertain us. Some of the advantages of social media which are considered a boon are mentioned below.

• Informative – Social Media has a lot of information and from many sources. It is social media that many people in rural areas are able to have information. The quickness of internet is the reason behind it. On social media, many news organizations and people share news and data which leads to spread of information.
• Publicity – It is a great publicity tool, in fact best. On Social Media people get fame overnight. It only takes a blink to make anything go viral and create a storm on social media. Apart from big celebrities get fame and good audience for their works. Ranu Mondal used to be a beggar but with her singing qualities got fame she became an overnight star.
• Business Promotion – Internet has a lot of resources; one of them is social media. Social media is generally recommended by many experts for business promotion. It is fast and easy to use which leads to connect people very quickly to any businesses. Many people don’t go with big advertisement but choose to use social media tools to publicize their business.
• Entertainment – Who doesn’t use social media for entertainment? Entertainment is one of the main purposes for which social media are considerably used. People across the globe use social media to watch videos and share photos. Instagram has recently added a feature of reels to post short videos which is one of the most loved features.
• Connectivity – Connectivity is a main factor about social media. If connectivity is not there, then how can we get publicity and grow the business. With the ease to reach any part of the world, users can make friends and connect with each other.

Disadvantages of Social Media

When we talk about social media’s advantages, we must talk about its disadvantages. There are certain pros and cons that social media holds. These cons are somewhere bad and sometimes lead to a disaster resulting in the bane of social media. Some of the notable disadvantages of social media are listed below.

• Fake News – Social Media has a hefty amount of information and sources. The information however, can be useful or can be not. There are cases when social media is used as a weapon to spread fake news and lead to many adverse impacts.
• Cybercrimes – Since internet is big and has a lot of people getting involved in it. It is quite obvious that there can be people who can commit crimes too. Cases of threats, harassing and bullying over social media leads to many cases of cybercrimes on social media.
• Cyber Security – People are found to share their personal information which leads to the damage life, property and data of many people. Cyber Security also deals with penetration of harmful software without the consent of user. One of the recent events is related to Pegasus.
• Health – People who spend their maximum time on social media can have adverse effects on their health. They always sit in front of their devices watching the screen sometimes in dark too. This can result in problems related to eyes and can lead to obesity.
• Peer Pressure – Most of the teenagers see people posting things on social media. It creates a mindset among teenagers to buy those things. This mindset is called peer pressure. This peer pressure can lead to many teenagers commit different types of crimes.

Interesting Facts about Social Media

A lot has been discussed about social media. Some good and some bad. But, we must also focus on some interesting facts and stats on social media which are mentioned below.

• There are around 4.2 billion social media users in the world.
• Facebook has approximately 4.5 billion users.
• About 90 billion dollars were spent on social network advertising in 2019.
• About 500 hours of content is uploaded on in every second on YouTube.
• Alone Instagram has the highest number of followers on Instagram with 410 followers.
• The second most used search engine after Google is Youtube.

Social media is a vital part and we are so much into it. It is a habit of all of us to use social media in our free time. But, we must understand getting totally into it can lead to many problems. It is important to know that whatever is good for us can cause trouble sometimes. Also, whenever we are getting any information on social media then we should verify it first. With this, we can make social media a better place for all of us.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans. Facebook is the most used Social Media Platform.

Ans. Six Degrees was the first social media platform launched in the year 1997.

Ans. Social media has the advantage of quickness, connectivity, and convenient.

Ans. Social media has disadvantages of fake news, cybercrimes and online bullying.

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1 Minute Speech on Social Media Boon or Bane In English

A very good morning to one and all present here. Today, I will be giving a short speech on the topic of ‘Social Media Boon or Bane’.

Whether or not social media is a boon or a bane, I believe, solely lies in the hands of the user. Like everything present online, social media has both pros and cons. 

Looking at the pros, it can be noted that social media can be very informative. From acquiring various kinds of interesting knowledge to learning about the news and the happenings of the world, social media can be a powerful weapon to become an intelligent individual. One can develop their communication skills and social circle for the better with the help of social media. In this sense, it is a boon.

When does it become a bane? When its cons or negative implications show forth. Cyber crimes, perhaps, are the most glaring con of social media. 

Use social media wisely thus. 

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4 Best Written Speeches on Social Media – Boon or Bane [ 2024 ]

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Social media is a powerful medium of communication. It’s a powerful tool to exchange information, ideas across the world. This speech talks about What is Social Media, how it is important in our personal and professional life, advantages and disadvantages of Social Media in Life, does social media pose a challenge to our personal & Professional Life.

List of Topics

Speech on Social Media Boon or Bane

Greetings! Respected Principal, Teachers and my dear friends!

Today I would like to speech on a very important topic social media. Social media is a very broad term which encompasses various platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram etc. It has become an integral part of our lives. We use it for personal as well as professional purposes.

In this era of digitization, social media has become a very important part of our lives. It has made communication easier and faster. We can connect with our friends and family who are living far away from us. We can also follow our favorite celebrities and get updated about their lives. Social media has also changed the way businesses operate. They use it for marketing their products and services.

>>>>> Related Post: ” Speech on Social Media & Its Importance “

There are both advantages and disadvantages of social media. Let us take a look at them one by one:

Advantages of Social Media:

Social media has made communication easier and faster. We can connect with our friends and family who are living far away from us. It has also made it possible to follow our favorite celebrities and get updated about their lives.

Social media has changed the way businesses operate. They use it for marketing their products and services. We can also use social media to promote our own talent and skills.

Disadvantages of Social Media:

The biggest disadvantage of social media is that it is highly addictive. People spend hours scrolling through their news-feeds and liking posts. This can lead to a lot of wasted time.

Another disadvantage of social media is that it can be a breeding ground for negative emotions like envy, jealousy, anger and frustration. When we see our friends posting about their perfect lives, we can start feeling bad about our own lives. Social media can also be a source of false information. Fake news stories are often spread through social media platforms.

So, these were some of the advantages and disadvantages of social media. We need to use it wisely so that it doesn’t have a negative impact on our lives. Thank you!

Social Media Boon or Bane Debate Points:

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. From connecting with friends and family to sharing our thoughts and ideas, social media has revolutionized the way we interact with each other. However, as with any technology, there are both positives and negatives associated with it. This brings us to the ongoing debate – is social media a boon or a bane? Let’s examine some key points from both sides of the argument.

• Increased Connectivity

Social media platforms have made it easier for people to connect with each other, regardless of their geographical location. We can now stay in touch with friends and family who live far away, share important moments in our lives and even make new connections through online communities.

• Access to Information

With social media, we have easy access to a vast amount of information on various topics. From news updates to educational resources, social media has made it possible for us to stay informed and learn new things every day.

• Platform for Expression

Social media provides a platform for individuals to express their thoughts and ideas freely. This has given rise to online activism, where people can voice their opinions on important issues and bring about change.

One of the biggest concerns with social media is its addictive nature. With constant notifications and updates, it’s easy to get hooked and spend countless hours scrolling through feeds, leading to a decrease in productivity and real-life interactions.

• Cyberbullying

The anonymity provided by social media has given rise to cyberbullying, where people can hide behind screens and spread hate and negativity. This has led to numerous cases of mental health issues among young users.

• Misinformation

The ease of sharing information on social media has also made it a breeding ground for misinformation and fake news. With the rise of clickbait headlines and biased content, it’s important to critically evaluate the information we consume.

Conclusion:

As with most debates, there is no clear answer to whether social media is a boon or a bane. It’s up to us as individuals to use it responsibly and be aware of its impact on our lives. While there are numerous benefits, it’s important to also acknowledge the potential negative effects and take steps towards creating a healthier relationship with social media. So, the next time you’re scrolling through your feed, remember to use it wisely and don’t let it consume your life. Happy scrolling!

Speech about Social Media ; Advantages & Disadvantages:

Hello everyone, today I want to talk about a topic that has become an integral part of our lives – social media. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying the impact and influence social media has on our society today.

As with anything else, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using social media platforms. Let’s take a closer look at some of these pros and cons:

• The first obvious advantage of social media is its ability to connect people from all around the world. It has made communication easier, faster, and more convenient than ever before.
• Social media also serves as a great platform for networking and building professional connections. Whether you’re job searching or looking for business opportunities, social media can be a valuable tool.
• It has also revolutionized the way we consume and share information. We are now able to access news and updates in real-time, and even have a platform to voice our opinions and engage in dialogue with others.
• Social media has also opened up new avenues for businesses to reach their target audience. With the help of targeted ads and influencer marketing, companies can now reach a wider audience and potentially increase their sales.

Disadvantages

• While social media allows us to connect with others, it can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. It’s easy to get caught up in the digital world and neglect face-to-face interactions.
• Another major disadvantage is the spread of fake news and misinformation. With the rapid sharing of information on social media, it’s important to fact-check and verify before believing everything we see.
• Social media can also have a negative impact on mental health. Constant comparison with others’ highlight reels can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
• Lastly, privacy is a big concern when it comes to social media. We often share personal information without realizing the potential consequences, which can leave us vulnerable to cyberbullying and identity theft.

So there we have it – some of the pros and cons of social media. It’s important to acknowledge both sides and use social media responsibly. Let’s not forget that moderation is key in everything we do. Thank you for listening, I hope this speech has given you some food for thought. Remember, use social media wisely and it can be a powerful tool for communication and connection. Let’s strive to find a healthy balance and reap the benefits of social media while avoiding its pitfalls. Thank you

3 Minutes Speech on Social Media; Boon or Bane

Hey everyone, today I want to talk about something that’s been a part of our daily lives for quite some time now – social media. From Facebook to Instagram, Twitter to TikTok, we are all familiar with these platforms and their various features. But the question is, is social media a boon or bane?

On one hand, social media has revolutionized the way we communicate and connect with people. It has made the world a smaller place by allowing us to interact with individuals from different parts of the globe. We can stay updated on news, events, and trends in real-time. Social media has also provided a platform for businesses to advertise their products and reach a wider audience.

However, there is another side to social media that cannot be ignored. With the rise of cyberbullying, online harassment and fake news, social media has become a breeding ground for negativity. It has also led to an increase in mental health issues, especially among the younger generation who are constantly bombarded with unrealistic standards of beauty and success.

Moreover, many argue that social media has created a culture of comparison and validation-seeking. We are constantly comparing our lives to the highlight reels of others, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. It has also made us dependent on likes and comments for validation, affecting our self-esteem.

But let’s not forget that it’s not the tool itself but how we use it that determines whether social media is a boon or bane. Social media can be a powerful tool for spreading awareness and bringing about positive change. We have seen how it has facilitated movements such as #MeToo and Black Lives Matter, giving a voice to marginalized communities.

In conclusion, social media is neither completely good nor bad. It’s all about finding a balance and using it responsibly. Let’s not let the negatives overshadow the positives of this powerful tool. Thank you for listening. So, next time before scrolling endlessly through your feed or posting something without thinking, ask yourself – is social media a boon or bane in this moment? The choice is yours.

Remember, it’s not the tool itself but how we use it that makes all the difference. Use social media wisely, and let’s make it a boon rather than a bane in our lives. That’s all for today, thank you. So, what do you think – is social media a boon or bane?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Keep connecting, keep learning, and use social media responsibly! See you next time!

Advantages of Social Media Speech:

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. From connecting with friends and family to staying updated on current events, it has revolutionized the way we communicate and consume information.

One of the biggest advantages of social media is its ability to connect people from all over the world. With just a few clicks, we can stay in touch with loved ones who may be thousands of miles away. This has made long-distance relationships and friendships easier to maintain.

Moreover, social media has also opened up opportunities for networking and professional development. Platforms like LinkedIn allow us to connect with potential employers or colleagues in our field, making it easier to find job opportunities and expand our career horizons.

In addition, social media has become a powerful tool for businesses. It allows them to reach a wider audience and promote their products or services in a cost-effective manner. Through social media, companies can also receive direct feedback from customers, helping them improve their offerings.

But beyond personal and professional benefits, social media has also played a crucial role in raising awareness about important issues and promoting social change. Movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter have gained momentum and sparked meaningful discussions thanks to social media.

However, with every advantage comes a responsibility. It is important to use social media mindfully, considering the impact of our words and actions on others. Cyberbullying and spreading false information are serious issues that can have real-life consequences.

>>>>>>> Related Post: ” Essay on Clothing “

In conclusion, while there may be drawbacks to social media, its advantages cannot be denied. It has connected us in ways we never thought possible and given a voice to important causes. So let’s use it wisely, harnessing its power for good and making the world a better place through social media.

Q: Is social media a boon or a bane speech?

A: A speech on whether social media is a boon or a bane would present arguments for both sides, discussing its positive and negative impacts.

Q: How is social media a boon to students?

A: Social media can be a boon to students by facilitating communication, access to educational resources, and opportunities for collaborative learning and networking.

Q: Is social media a boon or bane for society group discussion?

A: A group discussion on whether social media is a boon or bane for society would involve participants presenting arguments and counterarguments, exploring the broader impact of social media on various aspects of society.

Q: How is media a boon?

A: Media can be a boon by providing information, entertainment, and education to the public. It serves as a crucial platform for disseminating news, promoting cultural exchange, and fostering transparency and awareness.

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Social media a boon or bane for students?

Social media has revolutionised the way we communicate, trade or learn. For students, social media has both pros and cons.

Key Highlights

• While it offers the opportunity to network with the student community, spending excess time on social media takes away their play time.
• It allows to platform to exchange study notes but often students fall prey to cybercrimes.
• Students can explore their passion via stocial media but they may also be exposed to pornographic content.

The Information and Communication Technology has revolutionised the way we communicate, transact or even educate. With digitisation have also come various social media platforms, and Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Snapchat are among the popular ones. They allow us a range of options that essentially help us stay connected. But what is the impact of social media on students? Is it a boon or a bane for learners? Below are certain pros and cons of social media on student life.

Social media - the boon

There are numerous benefits of social media for students. For one, it allows students to exchange notes and lessons. Even professors share tutorials on social media. During this lockdown period, many innovative teachers have found a way to teach using platforms like Twitter and YouTube. Two, with the help of social media platforms, students now have access to a large number of like-minded people. If you are preparing for admission to a university, you can connect with alumni of that university to take guidance. Three, social media offers a platform for students to get their portfolio published. It allows them the option to be heard and seen. Four, there is no denying that social media has encouraged a culture of entrepreneurship. Many professions that were not seen with respect are now being given their dues. If one enjoys carpentry or makeup, social media influencers are now selling their passion viz apps like Instagram and earning a fortune as well. Five, social news is also feeding the intellect of students by keeping them updated with what's happening around the world. Various news media share updates on social media and increase awareness in young learners.

Social bane -  the bane

While there are several benefits of social media for students, some cons are hard to neglect. One, social media easily distracts students and shifts their focus while taking lessons. It is not uncommon for teachers to ask students to not use their phones in classes. Two, with social media, students are not spending enough time reading - a habit that helps in visualisation. It also does not leave much time for students to pick up a hobby like music or dance. Three, with social media, students are spending less time outdoors in picking up sports much required for physical development. Four, students may also be exposed to pornographic content via social media that is not appropriate for their age. Another more serious problem with social media for students is radicalisation by non-state actors. Young students are radicalised by terrorist organisations like ISIS that preach wrong ideas to vulnerable learners. They may also fall prey to cybercrimes on the dark web. Constantly gazing on the screen also worsens the eyesight of students.

Though the debate is an old one, it is best for students to reap the benefits of social media while being aware of the malpractices online and strike a healthy balance between the real and virtual world.

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Social Media: Boon Or Bane? Delving Deep Into The Debate

Table of content: 

What are social networking sites, boon: what social media gets right, bane: unmasking the dark side of social media, setting boundaries: managing time spent on social media, social media: boon or bane, frequently asked questions (faqs).

The 21st century brought with it an era of digital advancements. Smartphones, computers, internet came into being and soon after, turned into essentials. Today, the mere existence of an individual who is unaware of these devices is a question. While the internet was still in its infancy, social networking sites came into the picture, overturning the way things previously functioned. People now had virtual friends, ones they would have never met in person. Soon, there were online trends, virtual worlds, and even trolls. Gradually, the world turned into a puppet of social media. 

Explore the advantages and disadvantages of the Internet here .

Social networking sites are online platforms that allow individuals to create profiles, connect with others, and share information, interests, and ideas. These sites provide a virtual space for people to interact, communicate, and build relationships with others who share similar interests or backgrounds. Users can post updates, photos, videos, and other content, as well as engage in various activities such as liking, commenting, and sharing posts.

Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are examples of social networking sites (SNS). Social networking started on the internet as a generalized online community to connect people having the same interests and to share ideas. The first recognizable social networking site is SixDegrees.com which was launched in 1997.

Though social networking, a phenomenon ignited by social media, has turned into a boon for many, the debate on its pitfalls has been circling the fields for a while now. Today, it appears to be an age-old topic and one that may often appear as a group discussion topic during your admission or placement interviews. Before you start quoting facts for or against the topic, have a look at the two sides of the coin. 

Let us first begin with the reasons that state how social networking sites have brought about a major change in our lives and how it is more a boon for us all. 

Connections: Social Networking sites help to keep in touch with friends and family in today’s busy world. Especially during the time of the pandemic, it turned out to be the strongest tie for humanity, allowing strangers to connect and facilitate help during the pandemic.

Collaboration: As the initial purpose of social media was to connect like-minded individuals, it comes with a useful opportunity to improve skills and careers by sharing ideas, information, and knowledge, that might not be physically accessible to many of us.

Reforming education: It has been revolutionary in the paradigm of education. Teaching faculties have made social networks an extension of classroom discussions. Many portals like Doubtnut are helping students to solve their doubts in just a fraction of seconds.

Branding tool: Many companies have started interacting with the community and potential customers. This has somehow played a huge role in creating brand value and a niche for businesses amidst a highly competitive market.

Job opportunities: The employment hunt has become extremely seamless with students reaching out to potential employers via LinkedIn which is a kind of social network with job opportunities and internships.

Social networking sites have become an integral part of our daily lives, but they also come with a dark side. Numerous studies have highlighted the negative aspects of these platforms, shedding light on the potential harm they can cause to individuals and society as a whole:  

Impact on Mental & Physical Health: The constant exposure to social media often leads people to compare their lives with others who project their lives as perfect. This decreases happiness levels and also can lead to self-esteem issues. Research has shown a strong link between excessive use of social media and increased levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. A study conducted by the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK found that platforms like Facebook and Instagram can negatively affect users' self-esteem and body image, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. High screen time also creates many health problems like backaches, eyesight-related problems, etc.

Concerns of Privacy : Privacy is a big issue with social media. People's personal information gets stolen for malicious intentions. Users often share personal information and details of their lives without fully understanding the potential consequences. This information can be exploited by third parties for targeted advertising, identity theft, or even cyberbullying. A study by the Pew Research Center found that 64% of social media users have experienced at least one privacy breach, highlighting the vulnerability of users' personal data on these platforms.

Addictive Behavior: Social media has also been linked to addictive behaviors. The constant need for validation and the fear of missing out (FOMO) can lead to excessive use and dependence on these platforms. A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that individuals who spend more time on social media are more likely to experience symptoms of addiction, such as withdrawal and cravings.

The misinformation pandemic: Social networking sites can contribute to the spread of misinformation and fake news. The ease with which information can be shared and disseminated on these platforms has led to the rapid spread of false and misleading information. A study conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) found that false news stories are 70% more likely to be retweeted on Twitter than true stories. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to public discourse and democratic processes.

Lowers Cognitive Ability: Social media users prefer online conversations rather than face-to-face. It has affected communication skills and relationships. Moreover, social media users are accustomed to simply researching answers and solutions, rather than applying analytical or creative thinking skills. This impacts overall development and growth.

In conclusion, while social networking sites have undoubtedly revolutionized the way we connect and communicate, they are not without faults.

With the rise of social media addiction and its detrimental effects on mental health and productivity, setting boundaries becomes essential. By implementing strategies to control the time spent on social media, individuals can regain control over their lives and prioritize their well-being.

One effective tool for managing time spent on social media is the use of productivity apps. These apps allow users to set specific time limits for social media usage and send reminders when the allocated time is up. For example, the app " RescueTime " tracks the time spent on various websites and applications, including social media platforms, and provides detailed reports on usage patterns. Users can set goals and receive alerts when they exceed their desired limits, helping them stay accountable and mindful of their social media consumption.

Another useful tool is the "Screen Time" feature available on many smartphones. This feature enables users to set daily time limits for specific apps, including social media. Once the set limit is reached, the app becomes inaccessible for the rest of the day, unless overridden. This helps individuals create healthy boundaries and prevents mindless scrolling for hours on end. By using this tool, users can regain control over their social media usage and allocate their time more intentionally.

Individuals need to establish their own rules and boundaries when it comes to social media usage. This may include designating specific times of the day for checking social media, turning off notifications, or even implementing regular social media detoxes.

By consciously setting limits and sticking to them, individuals can reduce the negative impact of social media on their mental health and overall well-being.

Social Networking sites are a double-edged sword. Whether they are a boon or bane to society is for the user to decide. It mostly depends on how one uses it. However, it is important to note that children and teenagers must be guided by their guardians as they can easily be manipulated and have a high tendency to fall into traps that lead to cyber threats or cybercrimes.

1. Is social media a boon or bane?

The impact of social media can be both positive and negative. It largely depends on how it is used and the individual's perspective. Social media can be a boon when used responsibly for connecting with others, sharing information, and promoting positive causes. However, it can become a bane when it leads to addiction, cyberbullying, misinformation, and privacy concerns.

2. How does social media impact mental health?

Social media has been linked to various mental health issues. Excessive use of social media can contribute to feelings of loneliness, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It can also lead to unhealthy comparisons with others and a constant need for validation. However, it is important to note that social media can also provide a sense of community and support for some individuals.

3. Does social media affect relationships?

Social media can have both positive and negative effects on relationships. On one hand, it allows people to stay connected with friends and family, especially those who are geographically distant. It also provides opportunities for networking and forming new relationships. On the other hand, excessive use of social media can lead to decreased face-to-face interactions, jealousy, and relationship conflicts.

4. Can social media be addictive?

Yes, social media can be addictive. The constant need for checking notifications, likes, and comments can create a sense of validation and reward, leading to addictive behaviors. Social media addiction can negatively impact productivity, mental health, and overall well-being. It is important to set healthy boundaries and use social media in moderation.

5. How can one use social media responsibly?

To use social media responsibly, it is important to be mindful of the time spent on it and the content being consumed. Setting limits on screen time, taking regular breaks, and engaging in offline activities are essential. It is also crucial to verify information before sharing, be respectful towards others, and protect personal privacy by adjusting privacy settings.

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• Advantages And Disadvantages of Computers That You Should Know!
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I am a biotechnologist-turned-content writer and try to add an element of science in my writings wherever possible. Apart from writing, I like to cook, read and travel.

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Paragraph on Social Media – Boon or Bane

Social Media is a wonderful place. We enjoy it in many ways, to gain information, to do entertainment and sometimes to connect with people. Social media has spread its legs among us in a big way. Social Media has come up with a bang within a span of 10 years. We are very much reliable on social media and we cannot live without it.

Short and Long Paragraphs on Social Media – Boon or Bane in English

This page has some sets of paragraphs which will tell each and every aspect of social media which justifies social media as boon or bane. We hope that you will like them.

Paragraph 1 – 100 Words (What is Social Media?)

Social Media is web based technology that allows people to connect, communicate and share ideas, thoughts and beliefs in no time. It requires only an internet connection to be on social media. Social Media uses technologies to aware, entertain and spread information across the world. In past few years social media has taken a boom as number of people joined social media. It is convenient and interactive which makes people comfortable while sharing ideas and thoughts.

People use social media for business promotion and to bring audience for their products so that they can increase sales and grow their business. Apart from that graphics like photos and videos are also a part social media to connect people.

Paragraph 2 – 120 Words (History of Social Media)

There are billions of people using social media currently in the world. From the start individuals were unconscious of what really is online media. To make companions and associate individuals with one another a stage called Six Degrees. It permitted clients to make profile and make companions. It was dispatched in the year 1997 and shut down in 2001.

Freindster came to the market in 2002, following in the footsteps of Six Degrees. LinkedIn and MySpace launched in 2002. During the year 2008, Facebook surpassed MySpace as the most viewed website in the universe, marking the beginning of the big rise in social media. Notwithstanding, Facebook was at first restricted to Harvard Students when dispatched in 2004.Youtube was dispatched in 2005, Instagram came in 2010 and Snapchat made presence in the year 2011.

Paragraph 3 – 150 Words (Types of Social Media)

Social Media is divided on the basis of their usage and content shared. Social Media are used in different ways. From sharing photos to sharing of reviews social media are divided into many types. Some of them are mentioned below.

Social networks

Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn are popular social networking sites. We can collaborate with brands and friends on these platforms. Their focus is on communication and interaction between people.

For Image Sharing

Our hearts, eyes, and imaginations are captured by images, infographics, and illustrations. Several social media platforms, including Instagram, Imgur, and Snapchat, are designed to allow people to share images more effectively.

Video hosting sites

Video watching, creating, and thinking have been transformed by YouTube. A new form of accessibility was created through this process. Video has gone the rest of the way thanks to recent improvements in technology and connectivity.

Blogging communities

You cannot cover all topics in one post, but another post can just summarize your message. Not everybody on the web wants to maintain a self-hosted blog.

Paragraph 4 – 200 Words (Advantages of Social Media)

Social Media is very much advantageous in many ways from promoting business to spreading information social media can be utilized in a good way. Some of the advantages are listed below-

1. Connecting – People from all over the word can get connected on social media. Social Media allows people to share photos, videos and texts called posts on social media. On the post people can comment their thoughts and have discussions. Also, people can form groups where they can post thoughts and ideas with feedbacks.

2. Promotion – Many businesses nowadays rely on social media to promote their brands and sell them online. This makes companies to connect with audiences in no time. Social Media provides tools and techniques to increase reach and influence people. Many small businesses use these social media promotions to sell products. In fact, social media provides market place platform for the same.

3. Information – Many government agencies use social media to aware people regarding different works and events taking place. In the time of COVID-19, government used social media to make people aware about how to be healthy and boost immunity. After that people used social media to aware about vaccinations. Also, experts go live to give their opinions about different disciplines and inform people about any particular event.

Paragraph 5 – 250 Words (Disadvantages of Social Media)

Since everything has two sides, Social Media is also like that. There are many disadvantages of social media which exist and we should care about that. Internet has a lot of things going on at the same time. We generally don’t see these disadvantages and generally never realize them until it happens with us. The disadvantages that can make people think social media as a bane are following-

1. Fake News – Since there is a lot of information floating on social media. Whenever, we hear much news daily. Some are good some are bad. But the bad one prevails. There is a lot of news that need verification, we generally feel whatever we are consuming is true. We need to understand that everything on social media is not true. Since, anyone can post anything on social media.

2. Privacy – There have been cases where many social media platform have been accused of stealing data and selling it to third party communities. We generally share our personal information like location, sensitive information and personal info which causes problems like threats and spying. There are some incidents when people shared their information which was seen by people who were targeting them and committing heinous crimes.

3. Explicit Content – Since anyone can post anything on social media, people post some content which is not good to see or consume. These contents include vulgar things, sexual content and brutal things. These content can sometime drive people to do something wrong or can lead to a condition where people feel insecure on social media.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans. The technologies through which can create, and share information and other forms of expressions virtually.

Ans. Around 3.96 billion people are there on social media .

Ans. Instagram is the most popular social media platform .

Ans. Spreading fake news, losses of privacy health issues like eye damage are some disadvantage of social media.

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Essay on Social Networking Boon Or Bane

Students are often asked to write an essay on Social Networking Boon Or Bane in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Social Networking Boon Or Bane

Social networking: a double-edged sword.

Social networking has become an integral part of our lives. Its impact on our society is undeniable. But is it a boon or a bane? Let’s explore both sides of this debate:

Connecting People

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter help people connect with friends, family, and like-minded individuals from across the globe. It enables us to stay in touch with loved ones who live far away and build new relationships.

Information Sharing

Social media is a powerful tool for sharing information and ideas. We can learn about different cultures, current events, and advancements in various fields. It also facilitates discussions and debates on important issues.

Addiction and Time Wasting

Spending excessive time on social media can lead to addiction and a decrease in productivity. Scrolling through endless posts and feeds can take away valuable hours that could be spent on more meaningful activities.

Misinformation and Fake News

Social media platforms often lack effective mechanisms to prevent the spread of misinformation and fake news. This can have serious consequences, influencing public opinion and even affecting political decisions.

250 Words Essay on Social Networking Boon Or Bane

Social networking: boon or bane, the positive side.

Social networking has revolutionized communication, making it easier for people to stay connected with friends and family who live far away. Especially during the time of the pandemic, when travel and face-to-face interactions were limited, social networking allowed people to maintain social connections. It has also created opportunities for people to meet new people, make friends, and even find love. For businesses, social networking platforms provide a cost-effective way to reach a large audience, promote products and services, and build customer relationships.

The Negative Side

While social networking has its benefits, there are also several negative aspects to consider. One major concern is the potential for cyberbullying and online harassment. Social media platforms can be breeding grounds for trolls and bullies who hide behind anonymity to spread hurtful and malicious comments. Additionally, social networking can be addictive, leading to excessive screen time and decreased productivity. It can also contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially if individuals spend excessive time online and neglect real-world interactions.

Ultimately, whether social networking is a boon or a bane depends on how it is used. When used responsibly and in moderation, it can be a valuable tool for communication, entertainment, and information sharing. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to take steps to protect oneself from online harassment and other negative consequences.

500 Words Essay on Social Networking Boon Or Bane

In today’s digital age, social networking platforms have become an integral part of our lives. These platforms offer a multitude of benefits, connecting people from different parts of the world, facilitating communication, and providing entertainment. However, the pervasive presence of social media also raises concerns about its potential negative impact on individuals and society as a whole.

Connecting the World

One of the significant advantages of social networking is its ability to bridge distances and connect people from different regions and cultures. Social media platforms enable individuals to stay in touch with friends and family members who live far away, fostering stronger relationships and creating a sense of community. Additionally, social media provides a platform for people to connect with like-minded individuals, share common interests, and engage in discussions on various topics.

Communication and Information Sharing

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate. It allows people to send instant messages, make voice and video calls, and share photos and videos with ease. This ease of communication has facilitated collaboration among individuals, teams, and organizations, leading to increased productivity and efficiency. Moreover, social media platforms have become a hub for information sharing. News, events, and updates are disseminated rapidly, keeping people informed and engaged with current affairs.

Entertainment and Leisure

Social media platforms offer a wide range of entertainment options. Users can access videos, music, games, and other forms of digital content to relax and unwind. These platforms also provide opportunities for creative expression, allowing users to share their talents and discover new hobbies. The abundance of entertainment options available on social media has made it a go-to destination for people seeking leisure and enjoyment.

Potential Negative Effects

While social networking offers numerous benefits, it also carries certain risks and challenges. One concern is the potential for addiction and excessive use. Spending too much time on social media can lead to decreased productivity, sleep deprivation, and social isolation. Additionally, the constant pursuit of likes, comments, and followers can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

The rapid spread of information on social media also poses challenges related to misinformation and fake news. The lack of regulation and verification mechanisms on some platforms can facilitate the dissemination of false or misleading information. This can have serious consequences, as people may make decisions based on inaccurate or biased information.

Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

Social media platforms can provide a breeding ground for cyberbullying and online harassment. The anonymity and lack of face-to-face interaction can embolden individuals to engage in abusive or threatening behavior toward others. This can have devastating effects on victims, leading to emotional distress, anxiety, and even depression.

Balancing the Benefits and Risks

Social networking platforms offer a multitude of benefits and have become an integral part of modern life. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with excessive use and to take steps to mitigate these risks. By promoting responsible use, fostering digital literacy, and implementing safeguards against cyberbullying and misinformation, we can harness the positive aspects of social media while minimizing its negative impacts.

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• Readers’ Blog

Social Media – A Boon and a Bane

When the internet was created, perhaps no one was aware of its potential. It was just a convenience for sharing of information across some computers. Starting from ARPANET in 1960, passing through TCP/IP technology, today there is a social media system which brings us so close that as if time and distance stand reduced almost to zero. All of us who are on social media are from different parts of the globe, perhaps from places which we may not see during our lifetime, yet we are Facebooked, Twittered, Linkined, WhatsApped, and so on.

Social media has brought the world so close that political and geographical boundaries are crumbling. Time may come when netizenship may surpass citizenship. The more people-to-people communication is, the more is the strengthening of relationships. This is the basic principle of the political concept of nation-building. In an information society, bonds grow stronger. We are now heading towards a world-order of Net-state or states. In between, an ominous development of misuse of social media has cropped up.

A serious problem is that the spread of misinformation can severely impact the decision-making process. This is because we are closer in the virtual world but far away in the physical world. It was way back in 1993, a cartoon appeared in the New Yorker with the caption, “On the internet, nobody knows you’re a dog”. Digital culture has become so widespread that whatever appears on the Net, is readily accepted. Cross-check is almost nil. It is a dangerous trend. The children today believe more in the popular search engine than anything else. That is why fake news goes viral almost instantly through social media forwards. It has a cascading effect. Not only the problem is of magnitude but also in not being able to find its source also.

There have been stray incidents of online crimes from time to time. However, recently released Mueller report in the USA has come as a bombshell. It is not yet clear up to what extent there was Trump-Putin nexus, but this is also not the concern of e-media sociologists. The main concern is how the democratic process could be influenced at such a mass scale. The report reveals the modus operandi of remote-controlled information warfare. This shows that the democratic process can be overturned through social media. A too dangerous development to be ignored.

In India, general elections are in progress. They are being conducted in phases because of the vastness of the area and high population density in some parts. Every political party is using social media to spread information on its policies and programs. It will be unfortunate if it, later on, turns out to be remotely controlled misinformation campaign. The worrying aspect is that if in a mature democracy like the USA, people can be misled, it is relatively easy in younger democracy like India.

The point which is quite clear is that social media misinformation can overturn a democratic process. It is antithetical to human rights for which the UNO stands for.

Presently the internet and its allied subjects are regulated by ICANN. It is an agency within the USA. There is a need for placing it in the hands of a broad-based agency like UNO or one of its affiliated bodies. A suggestion is in circulation that the internet should be placed under the supervision of IMF but at the same time, there is an apprehension that disturbing the status quo may result in fragmentation of the existing system. USA, EU and China may split apart. Maybe. But misinformation warfare is dangerous than conventional warfare. It has the potential to create a slow-paced disaster.

Does this proposal fit into the existing international framework? Article 1 of the UN charter sets out four purposes for the creation of the UNO. Disruptive use of social media fits into Article 1, particularly, third purpose, namely, “To achieve international cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character, and in promoting and encouraging respect for human rights and for fundamental freedoms for all …”. The proposal fits at least into this particular provision.

Social media is an important tool put into the hands of an ordinary person. He or she can express views without going to conventional means of mass communication like TV, radio, etc. Of all the creatures, only human beings have the faculty of expressing themselves through language, written or spoken. It is for this purpose, freedom of speech is the most basic rights protected in all democratic setup. But at the same time, it should not eat away other rights through the spread of misinformation. A coordinated regulation is necessary so that it is put to good use, not the bad.

such great information that will be very useful, thanks for sharing with us. social media refers to the means of interactions among people in which th...

as far as improving our knowledge, communication & interpersonal relationships is concerned social media is a boon, but it is a bane as far as all th...

conclusion: social networking sites are a boon. but children and teenagers must be guided by their guardians because they are vulnerable to cybercrime...

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TikTok says US House bill that could ban app would 'trample' free speech

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Kanishka Singh is a breaking news reporter for Reuters in Washington DC, who primarily covers US politics and national affairs in his current role. His past breaking news coverage has spanned across a range of topics like the Black Lives Matter movement; the US elections; the 2021 Capitol riots and their follow up probes; the Brexit deal; US-China trade tensions; the NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan; the COVID-19 pandemic; and a 2019 Supreme Court verdict on a religious dispute site in his native India.

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Columbia’s President Tells Congress That Action Is Needed Against Antisemitism

Nemat Shafik said some contested phrases — like “from the river to the sea” — might warrant discipline, angering some supporters of academic freedom.

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By Nicholas Fandos ,  Stephanie Saul and Sharon Otterman

Nicholas Fandos and Stephanie Saul reported from New York. Sharon Otterman reported from the Capitol hearing room.

• April 17, 2024

The president of Columbia said the university had suspended 15 students. She promised that one visiting professor “will never work at Columbia again.”

And when she was grilled over whether she would remove another professor from his leadership position, she appeared to make a decision right there on Capitol Hill: “I think I would, yes.”

The president, Nemat Shafik, disclosed the disciplinary details, which are usually confidential, as part of an all-out effort on Wednesday to persuade a House committee investigating Columbia that she was taking serious action to combat a wave of antisemitism following the Israel-Hamas war.

In nearly four hours of testimony before the Republican-led Committee on Education and the Workforce, Dr. Shafik conceded that Columbia had initially been overwhelmed by an outbreak of campus protests. But she said its leaders now agreed that some had used antisemitic language and that certain contested phrases — like “from the river to the sea” — might warrant discipline.

“I promise you, from the messages I’m hearing from students, they are getting the message that violations of our policies will have consequences,” Dr. Shafik said.

Testifying alongside her, Claire Shipman, the co-chair of Columbia’s board of trustees, made the point bluntly. “We have a moral crisis on our campus,” she said.

Republicans seemed skeptical. But Dr. Shafik’s conciliatory tone offered the latest measure of just how much universities have changed their approach toward campus protests over the last few months.

Many schools were initially hesitant to take strong steps limiting freedom of expression cherished on their campuses. But with many Jewish students, faculty and alumni raising alarms, and with the federal government investigating dozens of schools, some administrators have tried to take more assertive steps to control their campuses.

With 5,000 Jewish students and an active protest movement for the Palestinian cause, Columbia has been among the most scrutinized. Jewish students have described being verbally and even physically harassed, while demonstrators have clashed with administrators over limits to where and when they can assemble.

In bending toward House Republicans in Washington, Dr. Shafik may have further divided her New York City campus, where students had pitched tents and set up a “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” early on Wednesday in open violation of university demonstration policies. Activists have rejected charges of antisemitism, and say they are speaking out for Palestinians, tens of thousands of whom have been killed by Israel’s invasion of Gaza.

Sheldon Pollock, a retired Columbia professor who helps lead Columbia’s chapter of the American Association of University Professors, said Dr. Shafik had been “bulldozed and bullied” into saying things she would regret.

“What happened to the idea of academic freedom?” Dr. Pollock asked. “I don’t think that phrase was used even once.”

Dr. Shafik, who took her post in July 2023 after a career in education and international agencies, did repeatedly defend the university’s commitment to free speech. But she said administrators “cannot and should not tolerate abuse of this privilege” when it puts others at risk.

Her comments stood in contrast to testimony last December by the presidents of the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard. Appearing before the same House committee, they offered terse, lawyerly answers and struggled to answer whether students should be punished if they called for the genocide of Jews. The firestorm that followed helped hasten their ousters.

Dr. Shafik missed that earlier hearing because of a preplanned international trip. She made clear on Wednesday she was not about to make similar mistakes.

Asked the same question, about whether calls for genocide violate Columbia’s code of conduct, Dr. Shafik answered in the affirmative — “Yes, it does” — along with the other Columbia leaders at the hearing.

Dr. Shafik explained that the university had suspended two student groups, Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace, because they repeatedly violated its policies on demonstrations.

She also seemed more willing than the leaders of Harvard or Penn to condemn and potentially discipline students and faculty who use language like “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.” Some people believe the phrase calls for the elimination of the state of Israel, while its proponents say it is an aspirational call for Palestinian freedom.

“We have some disciplinary cases ongoing around that language,” she said. “We have specified that those kinds of chants should be restricted in terms of where they happen.”

Much of the hearing, though, focused on faculty members, not students.

Under persistent questioning from Republicans, Dr. Shafik went into surprising detail about disciplinary procedures against university professors. She noted that Columbia has about 4,700 faculty members and vowed that there would be “consequences” for employees who “make remarks that cross the line in terms of antisemitism.”

So far, Dr. Shafik said, five faculty members had been removed from the classroom or dismissed in recent months for comments stemming from the war. Dr. Shafik said that Mohamed Abdou, a visiting professor who drew ire for showing support for Hamas on social media, “is grading his students’ papers and will never teach at Columbia again.” Dr. Abdou did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The president also disclosed that the university was investigating Joseph Massad, a professor of Middle Eastern studies, who used the word “ awesome ” to describe the Oct. 7 attack led by Hamas that Israel says killed 1,200 people.

Dr. Shafik and other leaders denounced his work in striking terms. But Dr. Shafik struggled to state clearly, when questioned, whether Dr. Massad would be removed from his position leading a university panel.

“Will you make the commitment to remove him as chair?” Representative Elise Stefanik, Republican of New York, asked her during one fast-paced exchange.

Dr. Shafik replied cautiously, “I think that would be — I think, I would, yes.”

In an email on Wednesday, Dr. Massad said he had not watched the hearing but had seen some clips. He accused Republicans on the committee of distorting his writing and said it was “unfortunate” that Columbia officials had not defended him.

Dr. Massad said it was also “news to me” that he was the subject of a Columbia inquiry. He noted that he was already scheduled to cycle out of his leadership role at the end of the spring semester.

Dr. Shafik’s words deeply worried some supporters of academic freedom.

“We are witnessing a new era of McCarthyism where a House Committee is using college presidents and professors for political theater,” said Irene Mulvey, the president of the American Association of University Professors. “They are pushing an agenda that will ultimately damage higher education and the robust exchanges of ideas it is founded upon.”

Democrats on the House committee uniformly denounced antisemitism, but repeatedly accused Republicans of trying to weaponize a fraught moment for elite universities like Columbia, seeking to undermine them over longstanding political differences.

When Representative Bobby Scott of Virginia, the committee’s top ranking Democrat, tried to enlist Ms. Shipman to agree that the committee should be investigating a wide range of bias around race, sex and gender, she resisted.

“We have a specific problem on our campus, so I can speak from what I know, and that is rampant antisemitism,” she said.

Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, one of only two Muslim women in Congress, pushed back on Dr. Shafik from the left, questioning what the university was doing to help students who were doxxed over their activism for the Palestinian cause or faced anti-Arab sentiment.

Dr. Shafik said the university had assembled resources to help targeted students.

By the end of the hearing, Republicans began to fact-check her claims, drawing from thousands of pages of documents the university handed over as part of the committee’s investigation.

Representative Virginia Foxx , Republican of North Carolina and the committee’s chairwoman, said that several of the student suspensions Dr. Shafik described had already been lifted and argued that students were still not taking the university’s policies seriously.

In a statement after the hearing, Ms. Stefanik said she likewise found Dr. Shafik’s assurances unpersuasive.

“If it takes a member of Congress to force a university president to fire a pro-terrorist, antisemitic faculty chair,” she said, “then Columbia University leadership is failing Jewish students and its academic mission.

Anemona Hartocollis contributed reporting.

Nicholas Fandos is a Times reporter covering New York politics and government. More about Nicholas Fandos

Stephanie Saul reports on colleges and universities, with a recent focus on the dramatic changes in college admissions and the debate around diversity, equity and inclusion in higher education. More about Stephanie Saul

Sharon Otterman is a Times reporter covering higher education, public health and other issues facing New York City. More about Sharon Otterman