Internet excesses: When art, religion, and science unite to moralize social networks

“My goal isn’t profit, but sharing,” says reggae artist Mister Gass, who has released a new single titled “Social Networks” to raise awareness about the dangers often seen online. He invited several religious figures, psychologists, and sociologists to discuss the topic at the launch of his song, followed by a showcase at Just 4 U.

Social media offers advantages, but also disadvantages that, unfortunately, contribute to the decline of morals. Artists, parents, spiritual leaders, psychologists, and sociologists, concerned about this scourge, gathered at Just 4 U this Thursday for the launch of Mister Gass's single. The music video for this reggae song, filmed in Senegal, features all segments of society, each sporting the logo of a social network (YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, etc.) on their foreheads.

Supported by a catchy chorus, the singer denounces in his verses the slander, denigration, insults and nudity that pollute platforms in Africa, and particularly in Senegal.

Sociologist Djiby Diakhaté recalled that in Senegal of old, the griots, masters of the word, only raised their voices to say good things and reminded people in passing of their genealogical affiliation — a way of signifying that any bad word uttered would involve all of their ancestors and descendants.

A society in distress

But what really drives people to vent like this on social media? Psychologist Moussa Ka explains these behaviors by the need for validation as well as the need to express their suffering and frustrations: "To relieve this suffering, some insult, others vilify their neighbor."

However, social media also has its good points. Father Stéphane quoted Pope Leo, who recently encouraged young people to use social media—and especially artificial intelligence—wisely. “Evangelize through social media,” the pontiff declared.

Imam Pape Samba, for his part, reminded the faithful that on Judgment Day, everyone would wish that the Lord would not expose their sins to public view. Therefore, why not do the same among human beings, instead of denigrating one another?

Westerners created these platforms in a context marked by extreme individualism, "which is very far removed from the structure of Senegalese society," notes the project's initiator, Mister Gass. In his single "Social Networks ," the artist encourages society to promote African values ​​and highlight the powerful actions of prominent figures from the continent, such as Thomas Sankara.

The artist concluded the evening with a 100% reggae showcase, in the presence of his guests.