Social media: Mini-movements to encourage civil discourse wanted

SMU Dean of International Affairs and Professor of Corporate Communication (Education) Ong Siow Heng in an opinion piece said social media's cloak of invisibility and mask of anonymity offer impunity in antagonistic disregard for societal values, conventional politeness and even basic accuracy in passing on information. The current state of social media culture hints at an "age of foolishness" and a possible "winter of despair". Prof Ong said various organisations are concerned for the vulnerable on social media. Schools teach media literacy, respectful communication and societal values. Religious institutions conduct courses on interfaith harmony and response to bigotry. Website administrators discreetly expel uncivil commenters.