I watched the season premiere of Mad Men and saw the character Don Draper suffering over having to give an interview. The reporter wants to know why he isn't talking more and Don says he is from the Midwest and wasn't raised that way.
It got me thinking, I have to wonder would social media be used in the same way or with the same fervor if it was possible during another time with another generation.
Taking the fact the technology wasn't previously available out of the equation, instead just focus on what social media really provides. It is the ability to have a platform to talk incessantly about yourself and what you do. What would other generations think of this and would they be as excited to share their every thought and activity?
This "me" generation has been raised to believe having self esteem is all important. Parents and teachers buy into this by always praising anything that they do whether it deserves it or not. You wouldn't want junior to feel bad about their effort. It's another reason why everyone makes the team and no one wants to keep score. We have taught them that what they do is worthy as long as they do it.
This thought process has produced a generation that is custom made for social media. Where you now have a place to tell anyone who is interested your thoughts, show your pictures, tell your age, location and relationship status.
I happen to love my social media options and can see the value they offer to keep in contact with people you don't get to see as often or as a way for businesses to engage with their customers. I just wonder if Don Draper would have a facebook page or would be playing Foursquare.
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